閑古鳥が歌う

Etymology
Phrase composed of +. Literally, “the cuckoo-bird sings”.

Used as a metaphor for loneliness or desolateness; see the entry for more. Compare, which similarly uses an animal noise to allude to a lack of response or activity.

Attested since 1772. Appears to be largely replaced by the younger version,, with this older version not listed in some dictionaries.