noun / verb

perch

PURCH/pɜːrtʃ/

A raised or narrow resting place, or to rest or place something there.

The songbird perches on the elevated branch, gripping it with its feet.

A small songbird rests on the narrow tip of an elevated branch, its feet visibly gripping the wood.

Etymology

A pole became a resting place for a bird, and the associated verb meant to settle on such a support. That image extends to sitting on a high or narrow place.

In context

How animals live 8:26

these agile Birds of prey often perch on high Vantage points patiently watching for any sign of movement below

"Gazelle: The Symbol of Grace and Beauty in the Wild!"

More examples

She perches on the edge of her chair.
He perches his glasses on the tip of his nose.
From our rocky perch, we can see the entire valley.

Forms

perch · perches · perched · perching

Similar words

roost: Usually a place where birds settle to sleep at night.
ledge: A narrow projecting shelf, not necessarily used for resting.
sit: Describes resting in place without implying height or narrow support.