Definition
A medium-sized game bird of the grouse family found in northern and mountainous regions, noted for its seasonal plumage that turns white in winter for camouflage against snow and brown or mottled gray in summer. The name is sometimes spelled 'partridge' in various dialects.
Example Usage
The hunters spotted a ptarmigan camouflaged against the rocky alpine terrain, its feathers perfectly matching the gray stone.
Origin
From Scottish Gaelic 'tarmachan'; the 'p' was added by folk etymology, as speakers mistakenly aligned it with Greek 'pter-' (wing).
Fun Fact
The ptarmigan's feet are feathered all the way to the toes, acting like natural snowshoes for walking on snow.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
Related Terms
Translate This Term
See “Ptarmigan” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
Try the Translator