snowbird
noun
Did you know?
Snowbird has been in use since the late 1600s, but it has only been applied to humans since the early 1900s. It was first used to describe men who enlisted in the armed forces to get food and clothing during the winter months and then deserted as the warm spring weather approached. Not long after, the term was applied to the northern laborers who would flock down south to work as the cold, harsh winter set in up north. Today, northerners of all kinds, from vacationers to retirees, can be seen migrating as soon as the first frost arrives.
Examples of snowbird in a Sentence
Rafael Peña, Miami Herald, 14 May 2025
One by one, these Canadian travelers, snowbirds and short-time visitors, all canceled their travel to Palm Springs.
—Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 13 Apr. 2025
The Wigwam is perhaps most well-known for its golf courses, providing locals and snowbirds with a cozy resort experience.
—Alexandra Hardle, The Arizona Republic, 31 Oct. 2024
Most buyers are snowbirds on the market for artworks to decorate second and third homes.
—Ben Widdicombe, Vulture, 12 May 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Snowbird.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/snowbird. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.
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snowbird
noun
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