fox sparrow

noun

1. a North American sparrow, Passerella iliaca, having a bright rufous tail and streaked breast.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fox sparrow¹

An Americanism dating back to 1860–65

Example Sentences

She stopped suddenly, distracted by a fox sparrow’s cheery song.

From New York Times

“There was a fox sparrow here the other day — one of my favorite birds. It felt like a blessing.”

From New York Times

Zink said, for instance, that the spotted owl is three species, and the fox sparrow is four.

From Washington Times

A multitude of other birds feasted too, during a December snow shower: varied thrush, fox sparrow and more.

From Seattle Times

Glancing around, Ms. Felix said: “Bird alert. Fox sparrow in the path.”

From New York Times