Pronunciation: [lˈa͡ɪmtwˈɪɡ] (IPA) 
The word "lime-twig" is spelled with the phonetic transcription of /laɪm twɪɡ/. The word "lime" is pronounced with a long "i" sound, and "twig" is pronounced with a short "i" sound. The "e" at the end of "lime" is silent, and the "w" in "twig" is pronounced as a consonant. "Lime-twig" refers to a type of bird trap made of branches coated with lime to trap birds. Proper spelling is important for clear and effective communication.
The term "lime-twig" refers to a specific type of trap or snare used for capturing birds, especially passerines. It consists of a small twig or branch that is carefully smeared with a sticky substance, typically a sticky lime made from birdlime. Birdlime is derived from the sap of certain trees and has a highly adhesive quality that causes birds to become entangled when they alight on the twig.
The purpose of a lime-twig is to ensnare birds for various reasons, including scientific study, ornithological research, or occasionally for illegal trapping and poaching. Historically, lime-twigging was a popular method for capturing birds, particularly during the Victorian era when collecting specimens was prevalent among naturalists. However, due to its potential harm to bird populations and habitat disruption, lime-twigging has been widely discouraged and heavily regulated.
The use of lime-twig can be seen as ethically dubious, as it poses a direct threat to the wellbeing and safety of birds, potentially causing injury or even death by suffocation or predators. Conservationists and bird enthusiasts advocate for the use of more humane and non-invasive methods of observing and studying bird species, such as binoculars, bird nets, or mist nets.
Overall, the term "lime-twig" encompasses the concept of a snare or trap for capturing birds, typically involving the application of birdlime to a twig.
The term "lime-twig" originated in the late 16th century and comes from two separate words.
First, the word "lime" refers to a sticky substance derived from various trees. This substance was traditionally used for catching small birds by smearing it on twigs or branches. The noun "lime" itself is derived from the Old English word "lim" meaning "a twig or branch" and has the same origin as words such as "limb" and "lumber".
Second, the word "twig" has its roots in Old English as well, coming from the word "twigge" which means "a small branch or shoot". In this context, it refers to the small branches or twigs that were smeared with lime to catch birds.
Therefore, the term "lime-twig" literally means a twig or branch that has been coated with lime to trap birds.
