birds of a feather (flock together)
proverb

- people who are similar in character

Cambridge Advanced Learner’s Dictionary

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ORIGIN

The idea of like-seeks-like dates from ancient Greek times, and "Birds dwell with their kind" was quoted in the apocryphal book of Ecclesiasticus. The full saying in English “Birds of a feather flock together”, was first recorded in 1545.

The verb “to flock” means to move or gather in large numbers. Flock is also the group noun used for sheep, goats, and birds (He moved his flock of sheep to a higher pasture).

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PEOPLE FLOCKING

This phrase has been adapted to the modern world meanwhile. “Birds of a feather” sessions, sometimes abbreviated BOF sessions, are informal discussions among professionals with similar interests. BOFs are frequently organised at trade fairs, conferences and seminars. The term grew out of the computer technology industry, but is used to describe similar professional get-togethers in other industries.

“Birds of a Feather” is also the name of a successful British sitcom concerning two sisters whose lives take extremely different paths.

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SMUGGLE OWAD into a conversation today, say something like:

"I knew you and Doris would get along well. You’re birds of a feather, after all."

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THANKS to Mario for suggesting today’s word.

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Paul Smith