marsh hawk

American  

noun

1. northern harrier.

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marsh hawk British  

noun

1. another name for marsh harrier

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Etymology

Origin of marsh hawk

An Americanism dating back to 1765–75

Example Sentences

A marsh hawk could be seen in the mudflats by the river.

From Washington Post • Mar. 19, 2015

I watched a marsh hawk wheel down behind the barn.

From "Sarah, Plain and Tall" by Patricia MacLachlan

The marsh hawk, sailing low over the meadow, is already seeking the first slimy life that awakes.

From Walden by Thoreau, Henry David

Yes, and at the self-same moment the eye also had its contrast; for a marsh hawk was skimming over the field, while up in the sky soared a pair of hen-hawks.

From A Florida Sketch-Book by Torrey, Bradford

Most country boys, I fancy, know the marsh hawk.

From Bird Stories from Burroughs Sketches of Bird Life Taken from the Works of John Burroughs by Fuertes, Louis Agassiz