jay
jay · noun
Definitions
noun
- 1.
A colorful, noisy bird of the crow family (Corvidae), known for its bold behavior and loud calls.
- 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
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.