wisp of birds

[birdeen's call]

Why do (or did?) people call a flock of birds "a wisp"? Is it because they were so elusive?

 

[emsr2d2]

Why do (or did?) people call flock of birds "a wisp"? Is it because they were so elusive?

That's an interesting question! I've found that the collective term "wisp" specifically refers to "snipe", but I'm still trying to find out the etymology.

 

[Barb_D]

I'd like to add, though, that I've never heard this before and you shouldn't use it now, at least not in the U.S.

 

[emsr2d2]

I'd like to add, though, that I've never heard this before and you shouldn't use it now, at least not in the U.S.

I imagine it would be perfectly acceptable amongst birdwatchers, who tend to be quite picky about these things!

 

[Barb_D]

Oh my, yes. That's a good point. Okay, don't use that word with people who don't own binoculars and Wellies that they frequently use together.

 

[emsr2d2]

Oh my, yes. That's a good point. Okay, don't use that word with people who don't own binoculars and Wellies that they frequently use together.

Ha ha!!! :-D

Slang word for your vocabulary lists - twitcher (bird watcher). I have no idea where it comes from!