rare bird

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English

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Etymology

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Calque of Latin rāra avis.

Noun

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rare bird (plural rare birds)

  1. An unusual or exceptional person or thing.
    Synonym: rara avis
    • 1977, “106 Beats That”, in Pink Flag, performed by Wire:
      Finds it more physical, that's an important word / Always seen first then heard / Such a rare bird
    • 2010 October 14, “Coming back to bite him”, in The Economist:
      This makes him a rare bird, for most Democrats running for re-election are staying mum or apologising for their votes for reform.
  2. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see rare,‎ bird.

Translations

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See also

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