Albatross

Pronunciation: /ˈælbəˌtrɔs/

Definitions of albatross

noun a large seabird with long wings, noted for its graceful flight and floating ability on the ocean

Example Sentences

A1 The albatross is a large seabird.

A2 Sailors used to believe that seeing an albatross meant good luck.

B1 The albatross has a wingspan that can reach up to 11 feet.

B2 Albatrosses are known for their ability to glide effortlessly for long distances over the ocean.

C1 The albatross is a symbol of freedom and endurance in many cultures.

C2 Conservation efforts are being made to protect albatross populations from threats such as fishing bycatch.

Examples of albatross in a Sentence

formal The albatross is a large seabird known for its impressive wingspan.

informal I spotted an albatross gliding gracefully over the ocean.

slang Dude, that albatross is huge!

figurative The failed project became an albatross around his neck, weighing him down with regret.

Grammatical Forms of albatross

• past tense: albatrossed
• plural: albatrosses
• comparative: more albatross
• superlative: most albatross
• present tense: albatross
• future tense: will albatross
• perfect tense: have albatrossed
• continuous tense: is albatrossing
• singular: albatross
• positive degree: albatross
• infinitive: to albatross
• gerund: albatrossing
• participle: albatrossed

Origin and Evolution of albatross

First Known Use: 1676 year

Language of Origin: Portuguese

Story behind the word: The word 'albatross' is derived from the Portuguese word 'alcatraz', which means pelican. It was later adapted by English sailors to refer to the large seabird known as the albatross.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe a specific type of seabird, the word 'albatross' has evolved to also symbolize a burden or curse due to its association with Samuel Taylor Coleridge's poem 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner'.