Zilpzalp

common chiffchaff

noun TSILP-tsalp Rare

Origin: onomatopoeic, mimicking the bird's monotonous two-note call

Usage Note

Zilpzalp (Phylloscopus collybita) is one of the first warblers to arrive in spring. Its repetitive two-note song, which sounds exactly like its name, is a reliable sign of spring. Plural: die Zilpzalpe.

Examples

"Das eintönige 'Zilp-zalp' im Gebüsch kündete den Frühling an."

Natural Translation

The monotonous 'zilp-zalp' in the bushes announced spring.

Literal Translation

The monotonous 'zilp-zalp' in the shrubbery announced spring.

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