What does parrot mean?
A parrot is a colorful tropical bird known for its curved bill and remarkable ability to imitate human speech. The word can also be used as a verb for repeating or reproducing someone's words mechanically, often suggesting that the speaker has not understood or accepted what was said. Parrots are associated with vivid colors, tropical climates, and vocal mimicry, while the verb commonly carries a mildly critical connotation. For example, describing someone as “parroting a politician” implies unthinking agreement or repetition. The word is useful both when discussing the birds themselves and when describing the behavior of people who simply echo words without contributing original thought.
A chiefly tropical bird with a hooked bill, often brightly colored plumage, and the ability to imitate human speech and other sounds.
"The scarlet parrot perched on the railing and called out to the passing visitors."
The term is broad and includes many different parrot species; it is not limited to birds commonly kept as pets.
To repeat, echo, or reproduce words or ideas, usually mechanically or without understanding them.
"Several members of the committee simply parroted the chair's recommendation."
The verb is commonly critical: it can imply rote learning, blind agreement, or the absence of independent thought.
The standard plural of the noun is “parrots.”
"Several parrots flew between the trees in the tropical garden."
A parrot can reproduce the sound of human speech, but it does not necessarily understand the words it repeats.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does parrot come from?
The English word “parrot” entered Middle English in the later medieval period. Its immediate source is generally identified as Old French perroquet, whose deeper origin is uncertain, with proposed links to other European words for parrots or parakeets. The modern form became established in English for both the bird and the verb meaning to imitate or repeat speech.
Related word forms
How parrot is actually used
As a verb, “parrot” often implies mindless repetition, rote learning, or uncritical imitation. In political and social contexts, it can suggest that someone is echoing a message without adding independent thought.
Easily confused with parrot
A parrot is a broad category of bird, whereas a parakeet is a smaller parrot with a particularly slender, tapering tail.