phalarope

noun

phal·​a·​rope ˈfa-lə-ˌrōp How to pronounce phalarope (audio)
plural phalaropes also phalarope
: any of a genus (Phalaropus) of small shorebirds related to sandpipers but distinguished by their lobed toes and preference for swimming

Examples of phalarope in a Sentence

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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.
Wilson's phalaropes, American oystercatchers and wood storks. — Jared Ranahan, Forbes, 20 Oct. 2024 Mono Lake provides habitat for imperiled shorebirds such as Wilson’s phalaropes, which stop at saline lakes during their long migrations, feeding on brine flies and other invertebrates. — Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 2 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

French, from New Latin phalaropod-, phalaropus, from Greek phalaris coot + pod-, pous foot; akin to Greek phalios having a white spot — more at bald, foot

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of phalarope was in 1771

Rhymes for phalarope

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“Phalarope.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phalarope. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

phalarope

noun
phal·​a·​rope ˈfal-ə-ˌrōp How to pronounce phalarope (audio)
: any of various small shorebirds that resemble sandpipers but have thicker toes and are good swimmers

More from Merriam-Webster on phalarope

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about phalarope

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