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Vocabulary Entry
canary
|noun • noun • verb
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N
noun
A small, brightly colored songbird known for its singing, often kept as a pet.
Example Sentences
"The canary sang sweetly in its cage."
"In the old coal mines, miners would bring canaries to detect gas."
"He bought a canary to brighten up his home."
N
noun
A term used metaphorically to refer to a person or thing that acts as an indicator of danger or risk.
Example Sentences
"The stock market crash served as a canary for the impending recession."
"The health of the coral reef can be seen as a canary in the coal mine for climate change."
"She acts as the canary in the coal mine, warning us of the potential risks."
V
verb
To sing or chirp like a canary.
Example Sentences
"The children canaried outside, filling the garden with joyful sounds."
"He didn't just speak; he canaried about his adventures."
"She canaried a lovely tune while she worked in the kitchen."