Migratory
/ˈmaɪɡrətɔːri/
Definitions
Relating to or characterized by migration; moving from one place to another, especially at a specific time of year.
/ˈmaɪɡrətɔːri/
Moving from one region or climate to another, typically seasonally.
The migratory birds return to the same nesting grounds each spring.
💡 Simply: Imagine a family going on vacation every summer. That's kind of like a migratory animal—they travel to a new place regularly. Think of birds flying to warmer places.
👶 For kids: When something like a bird or a butterfly moves from one place to another, it's called migratory.
More Examples
The monarch butterfly is known for its long migratory journey.
The migratory habits of whales are influenced by the availability of food.
The document contained information about the migratory birds and their route.
How It's Used
"Migratory birds travel south for the winter."
"The migratory patterns of caribou are vital to their survival."
Idioms & expressions
migratory birds
Birds that move from one region or climate to another, typically seasonally.
"The migratory birds return to the same nesting grounds each spring."
migratory route
The path taken by migrating animals.
"Scientists are studying the migratory route of whales."
From Latin *migratorius*, from *migrare* ('to move, migrate').
The term 'migratory' has been used since the early 17th century, initially referring to human migration before being applied to animal behavior.
Memory tip
Think of birds flying south for the winter; they are migratory.
Word Origin
"to move or change residence"