dodo

noun

do·​do ˈdō-(ˌ)dō How to pronounce dodo (audio)
plural dodoes or dodos
Synonyms of dodonext
1
a
: an extinct heavy flightless bird (Raphus cucullatus synonym Didus ineptus of the family Columbidae) of the island of Mauritius that was larger than a turkey and was related to the pigeon
b
: an extinct flightless bird (Raphus solitarius) of the island of Réunion similar to and closely related to the dodo
2
a
: one hopelessly behind the times
b
: a stupid person

Illustration of dodo

Illustration of dodo
  • dodo 1a

Synonyms

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Examples of dodo in a Sentence

That dodo can't do anything right. I feel like a complete dodo.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Dust ruffles may have gone the way of the dodo after their heyday in the maximalist ’80s, but the absolute best bed skirts (done up in cottagecore ginghams and frothy sateens and linens) are putting the antiquated bed dressing back on the map. — Shoko Wanger, Architectural Digest, 5 Mar. 2025 The genetics researchers have also expressed keen interest in bringing back the thylacine and the dodo. — New Atlas, 4 Mar. 2025 The company's Avian Genomics Group is close to achieving primordial germ cells in pigeons, which would allow genetic testing of dodo characteristics in pigeons – similar to the mouse-mammoth experiments. — Mike Snider, USA TODAY, 4 Mar. 2025 The company says reviving extinct species like the mammoth, the dodo and others could help repair ecosystems. — Rob Stein, NPR, 4 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for dodo

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese doudo, from doudo silly, stupid

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of dodo was in 1628

Phrases Containing dodo

Rhymes for dodo

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Browse Nearby Words

dodman
dodo
Dodoma
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Cite this Entry

“Dodo.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dodo. Accessed 17 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

dodo

noun
do·​do ˈdōd-ō How to pronounce dodo (audio)
plural dodoes or dodos
1
: a large heavy flightless extinct bird related to the pigeons and formerly found on some of the islands of the Indian Ocean
2
a
: a person who is hopelessly behind the times
b
: a stupid person
Etymology

from Portuguese doudo, name given by Portuguese sailors to the bird, from doudo (adjective) "silly, stupid"

More from Merriam-Webster on dodo

Nglish: Translation of dodo for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about dodo

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