fantail

Everyday

1. A small bird with a tail that spreads out like a fan; in New Zealand the fantail (pīwakawaka) is a common, friendly bird that follows walkers to catch insects. tree →
2. A kind of fancy pigeon or goldfish with a fan-shaped tail. tree →
3. A tail or end shaped like a fan. tree →

In the lessons

In nature lessons in New Zealand and Australia, fantails are familiar birds; in Māori stories the pīwakawaka has a special role, linked with the hero Māui. Fantail pigeons and fantail goldfish are bred as pets. Phrases: «a fantail pigeon», «fantail goldfish».

Examples

• A fantail flitted along the bush track beside us. tree →
• The fantail spread its tail like a little fan. tree →
• In New Zealand the fantail is called pīwakawaka. tree →
• Grandad keeps white fantail pigeons. tree →
• Our fantail goldfish has a long, flowing tail. tree →
• The fantail snapped up insects that our feet disturbed. tree →

Note

Countable compound: fan + tail. In Australia there are several kinds called fantails or willie wagtails (a close relative). Names of breeds and birds are not always written with capitals.