hawk owl

noun

1. a gray and white diurnal owl, Surnia ulula, of northern parts of the Northern Hemisphere, resembling a hawk in appearance and actions.

hawk owl

noun

1. a hawklike northern owl, Surnia ulula, with a long slender tail and brownish speckled plumage

Word History and Origins

Origin of hawk owl¹

First recorded in 1735–45

Example Sentences

He was the undisputed tyrant of the Polar air, even the dashing, white chocolate-mottled hawk-owl flying precipitately before him.

From Project Gutenberg

The Cobadekoock is the Hawk Owl, which seldom goes north of the woods.

From Project Gutenberg

Like the Hawk Owl, it is a day-flying bird, and is a terrible foe to the smaller mammalia, and to various birds.

From Project Gutenberg

It is somewhat larger and lighter in color than the American Hawk Owl.

From Project Gutenberg