BUZZARD

Definition of BUZZARD

BUZZARD Noun and (less common) Verb

Buzzard is both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a type of bird of prey, often associated with scavenging, sharp eyesight, and opportunistic behavior. Depending on the region, it may describe either hawks or vultures. In a figurative sense, it can also refer to a dull-witted or opportunistic person. As a verb, buzzard is a less common but recognized term that describes the act of circling or watching something closely, much like a bird of prey scanning for food. It can also imply waiting for an opportunity to take advantage of a situation.

BUZZARD as a noun

The most common use of the word buzzard refers to a bird of prey, especially those in the genus Buteo. These birds are characterized by their broad wings and relatively short tails. They are often seen soaring high in the sky, hunting for small mammals, birds, or carrion. For example, “The buzzard circled above the field, scanning for prey” refers to a raptor’s hunting behavior. They are known for their scavenging abilities as well, often feeding on carcasses of dead animals.

Specific Species: In North America, the term buzzard is often used to refer to the Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), which is distinct from the buzzards of the Buteo genus found in Europe and other parts of the world. The Turkey Vulture is recognized for its scavenging habits and the ability to soar for long distances while searching for carrion. For example, “A buzzard perched on the tree branch, waiting to feast on the remains of a deer” refers to this particular type of scavenger bird in North America.

Vulture-Like Behavior: While technically referring to a specific type of raptor, the term buzzard is sometimes used metaphorically to describe someone who preys upon misfortune or waits for a person or group to be vulnerable before taking advantage. For example, “He acted like a buzzard, swooping in as soon as the company began to struggle” suggests that the individual capitalized on a vulnerable situation. This metaphor draws from the bird’s behavior of circling and waiting for a weakened or dead animal to scavenge.

In European Context: In Europe, buzzard usually refers to birds of prey in the genus Buteo, such as the Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo). These birds are commonly found across the continent and are similar in size and shape to other medium-sized raptors. They are often seen perched on trees or soaring through the air in search of food. “The buzzard perched high on the fence post, surveying the landscape for prey” highlights the hunting behavior typical of European buzzards.

Symbolic or Cultural Significance: In some cultures, the buzzard has symbolic significance. In Native American symbolism, for example, the buzzard may represent patience, resourcefulness, or the ability to see things from a higher perspective, as these birds are often seen circling high above the land. In contrast, in some European traditions, the buzzard’s scavenging behavior can be associated with negative traits, such as opportunism or greed, especially in folklore and myth.

BUZZARD as a verb

Verb – Circling or Watching for an Opportunity: As a verb, buzzard describes the action of hovering, circling, or closely monitoring a situation, often with an opportunistic intent. This use mirrors the behavior of the bird itself, which soars in the sky, scanning the ground for prey or carrion. In a figurative sense, it can refer to a person waiting for an advantageous moment, much like a vulture watching for an easy meal. For example, in a competitive business or social setting, someone might be said to be buzzarding over a deal, implying they are waiting for the right moment to seize an opportunity.

In summary, buzzard is both a noun and a verb, with meanings deeply tied to the natural world and human behavior. As a noun, it refers to birds of prey, particularly hawks and vultures, as well as an opportunistic or slow-witted person. As a verb, it describes the act of circling, waiting, or closely monitoring a situation with intent, much like a bird of prey scanning for food. Whether referring to the natural instincts of a raptor or the actions of a strategic observer, buzzard remains a vivid and expressive term in both language and culture.

Examples of BUZZARD in a sentence

BUZZARD as a noun in a sentence

• The buzzard soared high in the sky, scanning the ground for potential prey.
• We spotted a buzzard perched on a tree branch while hiking through the forest.
• A buzzard flew low over the field, looking for small mammals to catch.
• The buzzard‘s distinctive call echoed across the open plains, signaling its presence.
• He took a photograph of a buzzard as it circled above the valley at dawn.
• The buzzard is often seen as a symbol of keen vision and focus in various cultures.
• As the buzzard approached, the smaller birds scattered in all directions.
• The large buzzard was spotted near the lake, where it often hunted for fish.

BUZZARD as a verb in a sentence

• As the storm grew stronger, the dark clouds buzzarded above the mountain, warning of a downpour.
• The detective buzzarded around the scene, inspecting every corner for overlooked evidence.
• The group of kids buzzarded around the ice cream truck, eagerly waiting for their turn to order.
• He couldn’t help but buzzard the streets, hoping to catch a glimpse of his favorite celebrity.
• The student buzzarded the teacher’s desk, trying to figure out how to approach the difficult assignment.
• She buzzarded the crowded room, searching for someone she recognized in the sea of faces.
• The helicopter buzzarded overhead, keeping a close watch on the ongoing search operation.
• The birds buzzarded the field, swooping down occasionally to snatch up their prey.

Origin of BUZZARD

The term buzzard has an interesting etymology, linked to birds of prey and reflecting its connection to both nature and language evolution.

Semantic Context: Buzzard is a noun that typically refers to a type of bird of prey, particularly those in the family Accipitridae. These birds are characterized by broad wings, a relatively short tail, and a robust build. While the term often refers to certain species of hawks or vultures in various parts of the world, it is most commonly associated with birds like the common buzzard (Buteo buteo) found in Europe.

• Etymological Roots: The word buzzard originates from the Middle English “bussard” or “busard,” which came from the Old French “boussard” (meaning buzzard or hawk), itself derived from the Medieval Latin “bussardus”. This term likely had its roots in the Vulgar Latin “bucinator” (a type of bird), which is connected to the Latin “bucina” (meaning a horn or a trumpet, suggesting a loud or call-like sound). The word’s association with a “buzzing” sound, reflecting the harsh calls or the presence of the bird, led to its modern usage.
• Historical Development: The use of the term buzzard has shifted over time, initially being applied broadly to various birds of prey. In medieval Europe, the word was used for a range of raptors, but by the 17th century, it came to be specifically associated with species of hawks and vultures. The word buzzard was often used in the context of hunting or describing scavenger birds, reflecting their role in ecosystems. By the 18th century, the term became more formally associated with the Buteo genus of hawks, which includes the common buzzard of Europe and other species found around the world.
• Cultural and Scientific Applications: In ornithology, buzzard is used to refer to medium-sized birds of prey, particularly those in the genus Buteo. These birds are known for their soaring flight and are typically found in open landscapes such as grasslands and forests. The term has also been adopted in various regional dialects and local names for raptors, including vultures and other scavenger birds. In popular culture, the word buzzard has sometimes been used symbolically to represent scavengers or ominous creatures, reflecting the bird’s role in nature.
• Current Usage: Today, the term buzzard is still commonly used in a scientific context to refer to certain species of hawks and vultures, particularly the common buzzard found in Europe. In American English, however, buzzard is often used to refer to vultures, particularly the turkey vulture (Cathartes aura). The word buzzard also retains its metaphorical associations, sometimes used to describe someone who preys on others or takes advantage of a situation. In certain cultural contexts, buzzard can be used pejoratively to refer to individuals perceived as opportunistic or scavenging.

The term buzzard has evolved from a general reference to birds of prey to a more specific designation for certain species, maintaining its connection to the natural world and continuing to reflect its symbolic and cultural significance.