migratory

adjective

mi·​gra·​to·​ry ˈmī-grə-ˌtȯr-ē How to pronounce migratory (audio)
Synonyms of migratorynext
1
: of, relating to, or characterized by migration
2
: wandering, roving

Synonyms of migratory

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Examples of migratory in a Sentence

most of the apple crop is picked by migratory workers migratory birds heading south for the winter
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.
Similarly, large-scale hydroelectric dams disrupt freshwater ecosystems by fragmenting rivers, blocking migratory fish species like salmon, and altering natural sediment flows. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 20 Aug. 2026 Letting water levels rise within the preserve lets aquatic life such as plants and fish thrive, while lowering levels is good for the soil and the wetland plants growing in it, and lets migratory birds more easily prey on fish. — Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 20 Aug. 2026 The small, rocky island is also home to migratory birds and other diverse wildlife. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 18 Aug. 2026 The Roseate Spoonbill is a migratory bird that makes its way to South Carolina during the spring and summer. — Lydia Mansel, Southern Living, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for migratory

Word History

First Known Use

1708, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of migratory was in 1708

Rhymes for migratory

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Browse Nearby Words

migratorial
migratory
migratory ant
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Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

migratory

adjective
mi·​gra·​to·​ry ˈmī-grə-ˌtōr-ē How to pronounce migratory (audio)
-ˌtȯr-
: having a way of life that includes making migrations
migratory workers
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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