turkey vulture

noun

1. a blackish-brown vulture, Cathartes aura, from the southern U.S. to South America, having a bare, wrinkled, red head and neck.

Word History and Origins

Origin of turkey vulture¹

An Americanism dating back to 1815–25

Example Sentences

Dead animals littered the side of the road; deer, raccoons, something that looked like a purple jackal, a Chupacabra or two, what looked like a werewolf, and at least one low-flying turkey vulture.

From Salon

“His forest name is Turkey Vulture.”

From Literature

“No. It’s the sound of a turkey vulture, duh! That’s how he calls us to the Speaking Stump,” Cedar said.

From Literature

It seemed like everyone except me was raising their hands, but Turkey Vulture called on me anyway.

From Literature

The other kids began to snicker and looked to see what Turkey Vulture would say.

From Literature