What does martin mean?
A martin is a type of swallow, a group of slender insect-eating birds recognized by their pointed wings, forked tails, and agile aerial flight. The name applies to several species, including the house martin, sand martin, and purple martin, and it is used in both British and American English, although the species most prominent in daily speech vary by region. Martins feed on flying insects and often nest near buildings or cliffs. House martins are especially recognizable because they construct rounded nests from mud pellets, often beneath roof eaves. The word can also be capitalized when referring to the personal name Martin. In general usage, martin is a practical ornithological term rather than a synonym for all swallows, since some familiar swallows, such as barn swallows and cliff swallows, retain their own distinct names.
nounA common name for various swallows, including the house martin, sand martin, and purple martin. The term is also used as a personal name.
- Any of various swallows, especially the house martin, sand martin, or purple martin.
"A pair of martins circled above the eaves before settling at their mud nest."
"House martins returned to the barn and repaired their nest under the roof tiles."
"The purple martin is one of North America's largest swallows."
Used for multiple birds of the kind, especially when referring collectively to the species.
"Several martins flew between the trees and the church tower."
A house martin builds its nest from tiny mud pellets, creating a snug cup beneath the eaves of buildings.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does martin come from?
The English bird name came through French martinet, a diminutive of the personal name Martin, which derives from Latin Martinus. The Latin name in turn comes from Mars, the Roman god of war. The same French word also became established as a name for certain swallows.
Related word forms
How martin is actually used
As a common name for a bird, the word is normally lowercase. Capitalized Martin most often denotes a personal name, place name, or surname.
Easily confused with martin
A martin is a swallow belonging to the family Hirundinidae, whereas a martinet can denote a martin-like bird or, in figurative use, a severe disciplinarian.