blue crane

noun

1. the great blue heron.

Word History and Origins

Origin of blue crane¹

An Americanism dating back to 1775–85

Example Sentences

This delightful red wine is bright in flavor and light in body, almost airborne like the blue crane — South Africa’s endangered national bird — it is named for.

From Washington Post

Proceeds benefit blue crane conservation efforts of the International Crane Foundation and the Endangered Wildlife Trust.

From Washington Post

He quickly snapped photos of a little blue crane holding electrical plugs the size of milk jugs.

From New York Times

In 1999, the “Big Blue” crane collapsed at a stadium in Milwaukee and killed three workers.

From Seattle Times

At its center, above an image of the foundering vessel, is a blue crane in flight, which represents the departing souls of the dead.

From The New Yorker