osprey

Definition

A bird of prey of genus Pandion that feeds on fish and has white underparts and long, narrow wings each ending in four finger-like extensions.

Etymology

From Late Middle English ospray, from Anglo-Norman ospriet, from Medieval Latin avis praedae (“bird of prey”), a generic term apparently confused with this specific bird in Old French on its similarity to ossifrage.

Example Sentences

• "1594, George Peele (attributed), The Battle of Alcazar I will provide thee of a princely osprey."
• "But (oh Jove!) your actions, / Soon as they move, as ospreys do the fish, / Subdue before they touch."
• "A pair of ospreys bred at a confidential nesting site in Co. Fermanagh in what has been described as like finding long-lost treasure."