Synonyms for

Migratory

Verb / ˈmaɪgrʌˌtɔ:ri: / Another word for migratory — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Migratory means relating to the migration of birds, fish, or other animals.

Synonyms & similar words

migrant nonmigratory nomadic roaming wandering itinerant traveling transient moving migrant vagrant floating shifting drifting roving rambling rootless ambulatory peripatetic errant homeless unsettled

Synonyms by register

Formal

nomadic transient itinerant wandering

Informal

traveling roaming on the move

Literary

peregrine wayfaring

Antonyms

resident sedentary immobile stationary settled rooted nonmigratory

Common collocations

  • migratory bird
  • migratory pattern
  • migratory instinct
  • migratory species
  • migratory locust
  • migratory soul
  • migratory behavior

Word family

noun migration
verb migrate
adjective migratory
adverb migratorily

Usage note

Often used in the context of animals, but can also describe people or abstract concepts that move seasonally or periodically. Ensure correct usage with the intended meaning of movement or travel.

Example sentences

  1. The migratory birds flew thousands of miles to their breeding grounds.
  2. The fish in the river are migratory and swim upriver to spawn.
  3. People who are migratory travel often in search of work.
  4. Migratory insects are known to cause crop damage.
  5. The migratory patterns of whales are still being studied.

Quotes

  • The migratory movements of birds can tell us a lot about the changing seasons. - Peter Matthiessen
  • The migratory instinct is a wonder of nature. - Edwin Way Teale
  • Migratory birds are like the postmen of the animal kingdom. - Anthony T. Hincks

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