notornis

[ noh-tawr-nis ]

noun

1. a rare, flightless gallinulelike bird, Notornis mantelli, of New Zealand.

notornis

/ nəʊˈtɔːnɪs /

noun

1. a rare flightless rail of the genus Notornis, of New Zealand See takahe

Word History and Origins

Origin of notornis¹

1840–50; < New Latin: name of the genus < Greek nót ( os ) the south + órnis bird

Word History and Origins

Origin of notornis¹

C19: New Latin, from Greek notos south + ornis bird

Example Sentences

Among other interesting birds Notornis stanleyi is figured on the plate opposite p. 273.

From Project Gutenberg

White's figure clearly shows the long wing coverts characteristic of the genus Notornis.

From Project Gutenberg

This bird was nearly as large as Notornis, but with a very small head and with a frontal shield.

From Project Gutenberg

It might be described as: Resembling Aptornis, but with shorter bill and feet, thus more approaching Notornis.

From Project Gutenberg