cardinal
A bright red songbird often seen in North America.
Cardinal has several important meanings:
- A bright red bird common in North America, with a pointed crest on its head and a strong orange beak. Male cardinals are vivid red, while females are brownish-tan with red accents. These birds don't migrate south for winter, so they stand out brilliantly against snowy landscapes. Many people enjoy watching cardinals visit their backyard bird feeders.
- Something fundamental or of primary importance. The cardinal rule of a classroom might be to treat others with respect. When sailors discuss the cardinal directions, they mean north, south, east, and west: the four most basic directions for navigation. Scientists might talk about cardinal principles that form the foundation of their research.
- A high-ranking official in the Catholic Church, just below the Pope. Cardinals wear distinctive red robes and help choose new Popes. When a Pope dies or resigns, the cardinals meet in Rome to elect a successor.