The name comes from the Spanish/Portuguese word 'flamenco' (flame-colored). Other fun animal group names include a 'parliament' of owls and a 'murder' of crows.
Why this works
At first glance, the term "flamboyance" might seem like an extravagant description of those elegant pink birds, but it cleverly encapsulates their vivid nature and social behavior. The riddle plays on our expectations of animal group names, which often conjure whimsical or serious imagery. Here, the word “flamboyance” stems from the Spanish and Portuguese word “flamenco,” meaning "flame-colored," perfectly reflecting the striking plumage of flamingos and their lively antics.
This delightful connection to color and culture adds a layer of richness to the riddle, as it highlights how language evolves and intertwines with nature. Naming conventions for animal groups can be quite amusing and reflect human creativity; for instance, a "parliament" of owls evokes the wisdom associated with these nocturnal creatures, while a "murder" of crows hints at their darker, more mysterious reputations.
As a fun fact, many collective nouns for animals can be traced back to the 15th century, when they were often coined in hunting manuals or poetry, showcasing the playful and artistic side of language. So the next time you spot a flock of flamingos, you can delight in knowing that their collective spirit is not just flamboyant in color, but also in the very name we use to describe them!