A beak is the hard, pointed part of a bird’s mouth. Birds use their beaks to eat, drink, pick up things, and sometimes to build nests or clean themselves.
People usually use the word “beak” when talking about birds. You might hear it in everyday conversation, in nature books, or when describing a bird’s shape or behavior. It can also be used in a few informal ways, but its most common meaning is the mouth part of a bird.
Meaning & Usage
The beak is a bird’s main tool for many daily tasks. Different birds have different beaks depending on what they eat or how they live. For example, a parrot has a strong beak for cracking seeds, while a hummingbird has a long beak for reaching nectar.
Examples
The bird pecked at the ground with its beak.
A duck’s beak is flat and wide.
The eagle has a sharp beak for catching prey.
What is a beak used for?
A beak is used for eating, drinking, grooming, building nests, and sometimes protecting the bird.
Do all birds have the same kind of beak?
No. Beaks come in many shapes and sizes because different birds use them for different jobs.
Can “beak” mean anything else?
Yes, in some informal English, “beak” can also mean a person’s nose or, in old slang, a judge. But the bird meaning is by far the most common.
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