1. A small, black-and-white North American bird of the genus Parus, most commonly Parus atricapillus. It is most active in cool weather, and seldom seen in summer except in
deep forests. It often has little fear of humans. Named for its
call, which often sounds like Chick-a-dee-dee-dee. The number of "dee" syllables on the end depends on the situation. More than three usually indicates that
something startled the bird.
2. A chiefly Canadian term of familiar or affectionate address to a girl or young woman; apparently derived from a Mexican
Spanish phrase composed of the word chica(girl) and an adjectival starting with the preposition "de"; the original phrase was forgotten because
Spanish is not commonly spoken in Canada, and the spelling was conformed to that of the bird. Only known and used in certain areas.
1. Our neighbor Mr. Larieu was going to cut down that big birch tree, but I told him there were
two chickadee nests in it, so he
said he wouldn't.
2. Hey there, chickadee! You're back from Chilliwack,
eh?