Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural relevance of the cliché 'birds of a feather,' a phrase denoting individuals with similar characteristics or interests.
The phrase “birds of a feather” refers to individuals who share similar tastes, backgrounds, or other common characteristics. It is often used to imply that people with similar traits or interests tend to associate with one another.
The expression “birds of a feather” is a truncated form of the proverb “birds of a feather flock together.” This adage dates back over two millennia, first appearing in the apocryphal book of Ecclesiasticus, attributed to Ben Sira. The observation that birds of the same species often congregate together was metaphorically extended to human social behavior. The phrase gained popularity in English literature during the Elizabethan era, with usage by writers such as William Shakespeare, thereby cementing its place in the English lexicon.
Semantically, “birds of a feather” underscores the natural human tendency to seek out and associate with others who share similar attributes or interests. The phrase carries connotations of social cohesion and mutual understanding, often implying a sense of belonging or community among like-minded individuals. It can also suggest exclusivity or insularity, depending on the context.
In contemporary culture, “birds of a feather” is frequently employed in both casual and formal discourse to describe social dynamics. The phrase appears in literature, film, and everyday conversation to highlight the natural affinity between individuals with shared characteristics. For instance, it might be used to explain the formation of social groups or the alignment of political ideologies.
The phrase “birds of a feather” can be adapted to various contexts, such as professional settings where individuals with similar expertise collaborate, or social environments where people with common interests form friendships. In literary contexts, it may be used to depict character relationships or thematic elements of unity and division.
The phrase “birds of a feather” remains highly relevant in contemporary discourse, reflecting enduring social patterns of association and affinity. Its versatility and applicability across diverse contexts contribute to its continued usage. Durability rating: ★★★★☆
“The reason why birds of a feather flock together is that they are of the same kind.” - William Shakespeare, The Rape of Lucrece
“Birds of a feather flock together, and so will pigs and swine.” - John Ray, A Collection of English Proverbs (1670)