avian

adjective

avi·​an ˈā-vē-ən How to pronounce avian (audio)
: of, relating to, or derived from birds
avian behavior
avian species
see also avian dinosaur

Examples of avian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Also, fresh chicken is unusually expensive per pound, in these days of avian flu. Matthew Korfhage, Wired News, 18 May 2025 Egg prices, which have been a poster child for the high cost of living, plunged 12.7% in April, as farmers got a seasonal reprieve from a lengthy battle with avian flu. Scott Horsley, NPR, 13 May 2025 Egg producers, including the industry's trade association, have said that the hike in consumer egg costs is due to the avian flu. Allison Pecorin, ABC News, 9 May 2025 North Carolina sits along a popular flyway for migrating birds, which can spread avian flu from farm to farm, says the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Gavin Off, Charlotte Observer, 30 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for avian

Word History

Etymology

Latin avis

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of avian was in 1861

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Avian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/avian. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

avian

adjective
avi·​an ˈā-vē-ən How to pronounce avian (audio)
: of, relating to, or derived from birds

Medical Definition

avian

adjective
avi·​an ˈā-vē-ən How to pronounce avian (audio)
: of, relating to, or derived from birds
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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