Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

the birds and the bees

phrase

/ðə bɜrdz ənd ðə biz/

Definition

A euphemism used to explain to someone, particularly children, how reproduction occurs, often in a simple and indirect way.

Examples

When my parents talked to me about the birds and the bees, I felt a mix of curiosity and embarrassment.
The teacher used the phrase ‘the birds and the bees’ to introduce the topic of reproduction in a friendly way.

Meaning

The phrase refers to the basic biological processes of life and reproduction, typically used when discussing sexual education in a gentle and non-graphic manner.