least bittern

noun

1. bittern12

Word History and Origins

Origin of least bittern¹

An Americanism dating back to 1805–15

Example Sentences

Other high-priority species identified by the report, some of which are already protected by state and federal agencies, include the piping plover, the tricolored heron and the least bittern.

From New York Times

Yet what she loses on one side she gains on another; she is like that least bittern Mr. Frank M. Chapman tells about.

From Project Gutenberg

The awkward, wary bittern and the still more vigilant least bittern are familiar residents here.

From Project Gutenberg

Within three paddle-lengths of my boat, in a patch of dark that must be a nest, stood my least bittern.

From Project Gutenberg

I went to the other islets, searched bog and tangle, and finally pulled away disappointed, giving the least bittern credit for considerable mother-wit and woodcraft.

From Project Gutenberg