English sparrow

noun

1. house sparrow.

Word History and Origins

Origin of English sparrow¹

An Americanism dating back to 1875–80

Example Sentences

Because of the damage they did to native birds, cats — along with English sparrows — were among Bailey’s least-favorite things.

From Washington Post

In 2016, Dr. Bonaros watched nonnative European starlings and English sparrows go after the dregs of Brood V, also disappearing from Long Island.

From New York Times

He promised that, if they continued to thrive, English sparrows would be claimed as "thoroughly naturalized citizens."

From Salon

Carnahan flies Tink mostly around the farm, where she catches small birds such as starlings and English sparrows.

From Washington Times

An 1897 article in The Washington Post noted that 30 U.S. states were offering bounties for certain troublesome animals, including wolves, panthers, ground squirrels, pocket gophers, woodchucks and English sparrows.

From Washington Post