jay

jay · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A colorful, noisy bird of the crow family (Corvidae), known for its bold behavior and loud calls.

  2. 2.

    (informal) A foolish or gullible person.

Forms

plural: jays

Phrases & expressions

  • blue jay — a common North American jay with blue and white plumage
  • naked as a jaybird — completely naked

Related words

See also: bird, crow, magpie, raven
Synonyms: corvid

Etymology

From Old French jai, possibly of imitative origin referring to the bird's call. The informal sense of "foolish person" dates from the late 19th century American English.