What does polly mean?
The term 'polly' refers to a female parrot, often kept as a pet due to its ability to mimic human speech and other sounds. This characteristic has made polly a popular choice among bird enthusiasts and pet owners. In addition to its vocal abilities, polly is also known for its colorful plumage and playful personality. While polly can be a delightful and entertaining pet, it requires proper care and attention to thrive. With its unique characteristics and abilities, polly has become a beloved and iconic symbol of the bird-keeping community. As a result, polly has become a staple in many pet stores and bird sanctuaries, providing a source of joy and companionship for many people.
noun
A female parrot, typically kept as a pet, known for its ability to mimic human speech and other sounds.
- 1. A female parrot, typically kept as a pet.
"The owner of the pet store had a colorful array of birds, including a playful polly that loved to whistle."
"The owner of the pet store had a colorful array of birds, including a playful polly that loved to whistle."
"The children were fascinated by the polly's ability to mimic their mother's voice."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of polly
The word 'polly' is believed to have originated from the name of a famous parrot in the 18th century. The parrot, known as Polly, was a popular attraction in London and was known for its ability to mimic human speech. Over time, the name 'Polly' became synonymous with female parrots and has been used to describe these birds ever since.
Usage notes
In informal settings, 'polly' is often used to refer to any female parrot, regardless of its species or size. However, in formal contexts, it is best to use more specific terms to describe the bird, such as 'African grey parrot' or 'budgerigar'.