The Fascinating Story Behind Collective Nouns: Why Do We Say 'A Tower of Giraffes' and 'A Murder of Crows'?

Have you ever wondered who decided that a group of giraffes is called a tower or why a gathering of crows is ominously known as a murder?

The origins of these quirky collective nouns date back centuries, blending history, hunting traditions, and poetic imagination.

Where Do Collective Nouns Come From?

The roots of many collective nouns can be traced back to The Book of Saint Albans, a 15th-century English manuscript published in 1486. This book, attributed to Dame Juliana Berners, was a treatise on hunting, hawking, and heraldry, written for noblemen who prided themselves on their refined language.

Within this book, hunters and aristocrats were introduced to what were called "terms of venery" (venery meaning hunting). These terms helped distinguish different animals in a stylish and often poetic manner. Some were practical—like "a herd of cattle"—while others were more creative, such as "a parliament of owls" or "a skulk of foxes". These terms were not always based on logic but often reflected the perceived characteristics of the animals. For instance:

• "A murder of crows" – Crows have long been associated with death and superstition, hence the eerie name.
• "A parliament of owls" – Owls, often seen as wise creatures, were likened to a governing body.
• "A leap of leopards" – A fitting choice, given their agility.
• "A tower of giraffes" – Likely a more modern invention, but entirely fitting for their height!

Did People Actually Use These Terms?

While some of these collective nouns became widely adopted, many were used more for fun than for actual linguistic necessity. Over time, phrases like "a pride of lions" made their way into common speech, while others, like "an unkindness of ravens", remain more obscure.

Feel like you need to practice this? Download our free worksheet: Free Worksheet: Collective Nouns In English + Answer Key by MPEC

Modern Adaptations and New Collective Nouns

The beauty of the English language is its evolution. New collective nouns continue to emerge, often humorously, as people play with language. For example:

• "A bloat of hippos" – A hilarious nod to their large size.
• "A flamboyance of flamingos" – Perfectly suited to these vibrant birds.
• "An embarrassment of pandas" – A playful description of their clumsy nature.

While these terms were once rooted in medieval aristocratic traditions, today they serve as a fun and creative way to engage with language. Whether you’re talking about a prickle of hedgehogs or a dazzle of zebras, collective nouns remind us that language can be just as colorful and entertaining as the natural world itself.

What’s your favorite collective noun? Let us know in the comments! 🦒🐦🦊