BUNTING

I. noun Etymology: Middle English Date: 14th century any of various stout-billed passerine birds (families Cardinalidae and Emberizidae) of which some are grouped with the cardinal and some with the New World sparrows, II. noun Etymology: perhaps from English dialect bunt (to sift) Date: 1711 a lightweight loosely woven fabric used chiefly for flags and festive decorations, 2. flags, decorations especially in the colors of the national flag, III. noun Etymology: term of endearment in the nursery rhyme “Bye, baby ~” Date: 1922 an infant's hooded outdoor garment made of napped fabric