: of, relating to, or derived from birds
avian behavior
avian species
see also avian dinosaur

Examples of avian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As photovoltaic arrays replace open meadows and farmland, avian populations are taking a direct hit. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 20 Aug. 2026 News of Jackie’s death sent ripples of mourning through her fan base, with thousands taking to social media to express their condolences and praise the avian matriarch. Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 14 Aug. 2026 When asked how the candidates would stabilize animal agriculture, Klobuchar mentioned protecting animals from diseases like avian flu and hiring more large-animal veterinarians. Mary Murphy, Twin Cities, 6 Aug. 2026 Against all odds, Flamengo overcame the multiple avian invasions to win the match 1-0. Matt Reigle Outkick, FOXNews.com, 5 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for avian

Word History

Etymology

Latin avis

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of avian was in 1861

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Avian.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/avian. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

: of, relating to, or derived from birds

Medical Definition

: of, relating to, or derived from birds
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