birdbath

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "birdbath" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a shallow basin or structure designed for birds to bathe in, often found in gardens or yards. Example: "She placed a birdbath in her garden to attract more birds during the summer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Not on top of Malibu" she exclaims when offered whisky by Meena's father, saying that she'll be fishing bits of sick out of the birdbath for ever after.

Independent

Tells about birds he watched splashing in the birdbath.

The New Yorker

She scatters ideas like a bird showering drops in a birdbath.

The New Yorker

A birdbath is completely within the oeuvre of the Master .

The New Yorker

When it finally stopped, he'd taken pictures of hailstones filling the birdbath and the recycling bin, like Styrofoam peanuts.

The New Yorker

Madeleine's garden was perfunctory, compared with ours: there was a patio swing with chintz cushions, and a birdbath on the scrappy lawn, a few plants in the flower beds.

The New Yorker

I took my morning bath in that birdbath in the garden.

The New Yorker

It confirmed that the birdbath was his and that he enjoyed my work in "The Jerk," but nothing since.

The New Yorker

I knew zinc — the dull, slightly bluish birdbath in the garden was made of zinc — and tin, from the heavy tinfoil in which sandwiches were wrapped for a picnic.

The New Yorker

SHOUTS & MURMURS about a birdbath by Raphael in the writer's backyard.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"You're like, 'Aw, God, a teen-ager just ordered a Coke.' " At Dallas BBQ, a well-muscled waiter named Rade Ravello plopped down twenty ounces of Coke in a birdbath-size goblet.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Regularly clean your "birdbath" to prevent algae growth and mosquito breeding. Aim to refresh the water every two to three days.

Common error

Don't assume a "birdbath" is self-sufficient. Stagnant water can become a health hazard for birds and attract unwanted pests. Ensure the water is always fresh and clean.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "birdbath" is as a noun, referring to a structure designed to hold water for birds to bathe in. Ludwig examples show it used as a direct object (filling the "birdbath"), subject ("the birdbath is still there"), and in prepositional phrases (in a "birdbath"). Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "birdbath" refers to a shallow basin designed for birds to bathe in. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media. As shown by the provided examples, "birdbath" appears in contexts ranging from garden features and wildlife concerns to discussions about public health, such as mosquito control. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and water changes, is essential to prevent health hazards. Alternatives include "avian bath" or "bird watering station". Overall, "birdbath" is a common and versatile term with clear usage guidelines.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

avian bath

Focuses on the type of creature using the bath, emphasizing its function for birds.

bird watering station

Highlights the function of providing water for birds, rather than just bathing.

garden water feature for birds

Broadens the scope to include any water-based element in a garden designed for birds.

outdoor bird spa

Implies a more elaborate or decorative bird bathing setup.

stone birdbath

Specifies the material from which the birdbath is constructed.

concrete birdbath

Specifies the material from which the birdbath is constructed.

elevated bird basin

Emphasizes the raised nature and basin-like shape of the birdbath.

bird fountain

Highlights the presence of flowing water, distinguishing it from a still bath.

water bowl for birds

Uses a more general term to describe the container holding water for birds.

backyard bird pool

Suggests a larger water feature, more akin to a small pool, for birds.

FAQs

How often should I clean my "birdbath"?

It's recommended to clean your "birdbath" at least once a week to prevent algae and bacteria buildup. Empty and scrub the basin with a brush and mild soap, then rinse thoroughly before refilling with fresh water.

What can I add to my "birdbath" to prevent mosquitoes?

You can use mosquito dunks or bits, which contain Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), a bacteria that's toxic to mosquito larvae but safe for birds and other wildlife. Alternatively, ensure the water is changed frequently to disrupt the mosquito breeding cycle.

Where is the best place to position a "birdbath" in my garden?

Place your "birdbath" in a partially shaded area to keep the water cool and reduce evaporation. Ensure it's near some cover, like trees or shrubs, so birds have a safe place to retreat if they feel threatened. Avoid placing it too close to feeders to prevent contamination.

What material is best for a "birdbath"?

Common materials include concrete, stone, ceramic, and plastic. Concrete and stone are durable and attractive but can be heavy. Ceramic is decorative but may be prone to cracking in freezing temperatures. Plastic is lightweight and affordable but may not be as aesthetically pleasing. Choose a material that suits your climate and style preferences.