parrot

par-rot · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A tropical bird with brightly colored plumage, a strong curved beak, and the ability to mimic human speech.

  2. 2.

    To repeat mechanically without understanding; to mimic.

  3. 3.

    A person who mechanically repeats the words or ideas of others without understanding.

Forms

plural: parrots

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    parrot fashion — by rote, without understanding
  • •
    sick as a parrot — very disappointed (British informal)
  • •
    poll parrot — a talkative person

Related words

See also: bird, cockatoo, macaw, mimic
Synonyms: psittacine

Etymology

From French Perrot, a diminutive of Pierre (Peter), commonly used as a name for pet birds in the 16th century. Similar to how "Polly" became associated with parrots in English.