curlew

Definition

Any of several migratory wading birds in the genus Numenius, remarkable for their long, slender, downcurved bills.

Etymology

From Middle English curlew, from Old French courlieu (see French courlis), claimed to be imitative of the bird's cry but apparently assimilated with dialectal *corliu (“runner, messenger”), a variant of coureur (the bird is adept at running).

Example Sentences

• "That quivering wail from the billabong lying murkily mystic towards the East was only the cry of the fearing curlew."