How Do You Spell WINDHOVER?

Pronunciation: [wˈɪndhə͡ʊvə] (IPA)

The word "windhover" is a term used to describe the kestrel, a type of small falcon. Its correct spelling may seem confusing to some, as it does not follow typical English spelling patterns. However, the word comes from Old English, where the "wi" was pronounced as "win," and "hover" meant "to remain suspended in the air." Therefore, "windhover" is pronounced as /ˈwɪn(d)ˌhʌvər/ with the stress on the first syllable, making it easier to understand the origins of its spelling.

WINDHOVER Meaning and Definition

1. A windhover refers to a particular bird of prey called the Eurasian kestrel (Falco tinnunculus). It is a small to medium-sized raptor characterized by its slender body, pointed wings, and a distinctively long tail. The name "windhover" is derived from the bird's hunting behavior, as it often hovers or hovers slightly ahead in the wind, using its sharp eyesight to spot and track its prey, mainly small mammals and birds. The windhover's ability to remain motionless in the air while scanning the ground for potential meals is a remarkable display of its aerial efficiency.

   In addition to its hunting technique, the windhover also boasts elegant flight displays, including swift and agile movements, often accompanied by bursts of rapid wing flapping interspersed with glides. Its plumage typically consists of a combination of warm russet tones, greyish-blue wings, and a distinct black moustache mark near its eyes. The bird's enchanting appearance and impressive aerial prowess have inspired poets, painters, and nature enthusiasts alike.

   The term "windhover" is occasionally used interchangeably with the more general term "kestrel," but it specifically alludes to the Eurasian kestrel species. It is worth noting that windhovers can be found across various habitats such as grasslands, woodlands, and farmlands throughout Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa.

Common Misspellings for WINDHOVER

• qindhover
• aindhover
• sindhover
• eindhover
• 3indhover
• 2indhover
• wundhover
• wjndhover
• wkndhover
• wondhover
• w9ndhover
• w8ndhover
• wibdhover
• wimdhover
• wijdhover
• wihdhover
• winshover
• winxhover
• winchover
• winfhover

Etymology of WINDHOVER

The word "windhover" is derived from Middle English and Old English roots. Its etymology can be traced back to the combination of two root words: "wind" and "hover".

1. "Wind": The word "wind" originally comes from Old English "wind", which can be traced further back to Proto-Germanic "windaz". This root word refers to the natural movement of air, often associated with gusts, breezes, or windstorms.

2. "Hover": The word "hover" originates from Middle English "hoveren", which comes from Old English "hōferian" or "hofian". Its ultimate origin is uncertain, but it may have connections to Old Norse "hofa" meaning "to hover" or "hang". In general, "hover" refers to staying in one place in the air or staying close to the ground without moving much.

Plural form of WINDHOVER is WINDHOVERS