billing and cooing
The phrase "billing and cooing" draws a parallel between the affectionate behavior of birds, particularly doves and pigeons, and the tender interactions of romantic couples.
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Definition
B2Romantic Relationships
(informal, idiom)Affectionate and intimate actions between lovers, such as gentle gestures and tender words.
Example
- They spent the afternoon billing and cooing in the park.
- The couple's billing and cooing made everyone around them smile.
C1Animal Behavior
(technical, biological)The cooing and rubbing of beaks performed by birds like pigeons and doves as part of their courtship.
Example
- The pigeons were billing and cooing on the rooftop, preparing to mate.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "billing and cooing":