bullbat

[ bool-bat ]

noun

1. nighthawk ( def 1 ).

bullbat

/ ˈbʊlˌbæt /

noun

1. another name for nighthawk

Word History and Origins

Origin of bullbat¹

1830–40, Americanism; said to be so called from the noise it makes when flying. See bull ¹, bat ²

Example Sentences

A vibrant cry, Passing, then gone, of bullbats in the sky.

From Project Gutenberg

The moon was not high enough yet to dispel much of the gloom of the twilight, and bullbats were circling overhead, dipping so low at times that once they almost brushed her face.

From Project Gutenberg

The heavy cry of the bullbat fell from far above, and looking up quickly for a sight of his winnowing wings under the vast purpling vault she beheld the earliest stars.

From Project Gutenberg