[19] The Mysterious Language of Magpies: Flock, Gulp, Tiding, and Murder - Unraveling the Collective Nouns

A collective noun for magpies is "a tiding of magpies." This phrase is used to describe a gathering or a group of these intelligent, black-and-white birds. The tiding of magpies is a fitting term which captures the social nature and the often conspicuous presence of magpies. As highly social and territorial birds, magpies typically form cohesive flocks during certain times of the year, such as during the breeding season and winter months. These tiding gatherings can vary in size, ranging from a small group to a larger assembly.

The concept of a "tiding" captures the lively and active behavior of magpies as they engage in complex social interactions. Observing a tiding of magpies can be a captivating experience, as these birds exhibit remarkable unity and coordination. They communicate with melodious calls and engage in acrobatic displays, showcasing their aerial agility. Within the tiding, individual magpies cooperate in environmental surveillance, foraging for food, and even defending their collective territory.

Additionally, the term "tiding" reflects a sense of perception often associated with the behavior of magpies. Due to the mythological beliefs surrounding magpies and their association with luck, the phrase "one for sorrow, two for joy" links their presence to omens or possible future events. In this context, the collective noun captures not only the physical gathering of the magpies but also the symbolism and perceived meaning that they evoke.

The collective noun "a tiding of magpies" emphasizes both the social nature and the complex behaviors displayed by this captivating avian species. It invites us to appreciate the dynamics and vibrant social interactions witnessed within this distinctive collective of birds.

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Charm of Magpies

A charm of magpies is a melodious and mesmerizing collective noun phrase used to describe a group or gathering of magpies, the enchanting black and white avian species known for their intelligence and mystical attributes. This unique expression captures t...

Example sentence

"The charm of magpies gathered in the treetops, their iridescent feathers shimmering in the sunlight."

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Chatter Of Magpies

Chatter of Magpies is the term used to describe a group of magpies, highly intelligent and social birds known for their distinctive black and white plumage. This unique collective noun perfectly conveys the lively and chatty nature of these charismatic cr...

Example sentence

"As I walked through the park, a chatter of magpies gathered on the branches, their lively calls filling the air."

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Cluster Of Magpies

A cluster of magpies captures the whimsical and lively essence of these intelligent and engaging birds. With their black and white feathers shimmering in the sunlight, magpies forage and socialize together, engaging in constant chirps and delightful excha...

Example sentence

"In the yard, a cluster of magpies pecked at the scattered breadcrumbs, their iridescent feathers shimmering under the golden sunlight."

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Congregation of Magpies

A congregation of magpies refers to a gathering or assembly of these fascinating and highly intelligent birds. Known for their symbolic representation of mystery, curiosity, and intelligence, magpies congregate in compact groups that express a remarkable ...

Example sentence

"A congregation of magpies greeted us as we wandered through the park, their glossy feathers shimmering in the sunlight."

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Conspiracy Of Magpies

A Conspiracy of Magpies is a captivating and unique collective noun phrase used to describe a gathering or flock of magpies. Known for their iconic black and white plumage and distinctive, melodic calls, magpies have long inspired both fascination and sup...

Example sentence

"As I walked through the park, I noticed a conspiracy of magpies gathered on the lawns, a mesmerizing sight as they plotted their mysterious agendas."

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Conventicle of Magpies

A Conventicle of Magpies is a whimsical collective noun phrase used to describe a group of magpies. The word conventicle evokes an image of a secret or clandestine gathering, which is fitting for these mischievous and intelligent birds known for their pla...

Example sentence

"A conventicle of magpies fluttered and chattered excitedly in the tall trees."

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Dropping Of Magpies

The dropping of magpies refers to a group of magpies that gather and fly together in a formation known as a murmuration. These birds, which are known for their striking black and white plumage, create a mesmerizing display as they navigate the skies and p...

Example sentence

"During my morning walk, I was struck by the majestic sight of a Dropping of Magpies gracefully flying across the sky."

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Gulp of Magpies

A gulp of magpies is a charming and poetic collective noun phrase that denotes a group or collective gathering of magpies. The word gulp originates from the medieval term goulp or gulp, which refers to a large portion consumed or swallowed all at once, gi...

Example sentence

"I was enjoying my morning coffee when suddenly a gulp of magpies descended upon my backyard, their melodic calls filling the air."

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Intrigue Of Magpies

An Intrigue of Magpies refers to a gathering or group of these fascinating birds. Known for their distinctive black and white feathers, as well as their mischievous and playful behavior, magpies often captivate our attention with their intelligent and inq...

Example sentence

"As I gazed out of my window, an intrigue of magpies landed on the fence, their glossy black feathers catching glimpses of light."

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Mischief Of Magpies

A mischief of magpies is a collective noun phrase specifically used to describe a group of magpies -- highly intelligent and charismatic birds. As the name implies, mischief perfectly captures their mischievous nature and behavior. These playful and resou...

Example sentence

"A mischief of Magpies entertained us with their acrobatic displays in the park."

Some of these collective noun phrases are traditional, while others showcase a touch of creativity. Choose the one that best fits your narrative or discussion.

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