turnstone

[ turn-stohn ]

noun

1. any shorebird of the genus Arenaria, characterized by the habit of turning turn over stones in search of food.
2. British. ruddy turnstone.

turnstone

/ ˈtɜːnˌstəʊn /

noun

1. either of two shore birds of the genus Arenaria , esp A. interpres ( ruddy turnstone ). They are related and similar to plovers and sandpipers

Word History and Origins

Origin of turnstone¹

First recorded in 1665–75; turn + stone

Word History and Origins

Origin of turnstone¹

C17: so called because it turns over stones in search of food

Example Sentences

The turnstone (Strepsilas interpres) arrives in the islands in August after breeding in Alaska.

From Project Gutenberg

Although the turnstone and semipalmated plovers are reminiscent, they are quite distinct and not to be confused.

From Project Gutenberg

This peculiarity has gained for the Turnstone its trivial name.

From Project Gutenberg

The Turnstone changes its haunts but little during the breeding season.

From Project Gutenberg

The Turnstone is a restless 88 little creature, ever on the run in quest of food.

From Project Gutenberg