Sparrow/ˈspærəʊ/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Common Bird Sparrows are widespread, so the term might symbolize something ordinary or common. In his paintings, the sparrow represents everyday life. Pro Tip 2/3Literal Use Generally, 'sparrow' refers specifically to the bird and not other types of birds. I saw a sparrow, not a finch, in the garden. Pro Tip 3/3Avoid Confusion Don't confuse 'sparrow' with similar small birds; 'sparrow' is a specific type. The sparrow we spotted was not a swallow, though they both are small.