hirundine

English

Etymology

From Latin hirundo (“a swallow”).

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /hɪˈɹʌndʌɪn/

Adjective

hirundine (not comparable)

1. Of or relating to a swallow (the bird); of or relating to the family Hirundinidae.
   • 1899, R.H. Allen, Star Names and their Meaning, page 44:

     I have not met with these hirundine star-titles except in these two instances, and I think them both incorrect.

Noun

hirundine (plural hirundines)

1. A member of the swallow family
   • 1973, Patrick O'Brian, HMS Surprise:

     ‘...and so, gentlemen, I believe I may confidently state that the hibernation of swallows, and of all other hirundines, is conclusively proved,’ said Mr Lamb, with a defiant glare at his audience.

Latin

Noun

hirundine

1. ablative singular of hirundō