great horned owl

noun

1. a large, brown-speckled owl, Bubo virginianus, common in the Western Hemisphere, having prominent ear tufts.

Word History and Origins

Origin of great horned owl¹

First recorded in 1670–80

Example Sentences

The troopers take care to avoid the nesting great horned owls that return each year and “swoop” patrolling officers if they shine lights toward their perches.

From Los Angeles Times

In spring, find western bluebirds, great horned owls and tree frogs, chipmunks, buttercups, warblers and three species of hummingbirds.

From Seattle Times

Some people have suggested a possible match with Geraldine, a female great horned owl, a related species, who had established residence in the park by the time Flaco showed up.

From Seattle Times

Their phones were now full of oncillas, tapirs, great horned owls and the gleaming crowns of Mauritius palms at sunset.

From New York Times

Some volunteer rehabilitators have come under investigation for illegally taking injured raccoons home to play with them as pets, and for dressing great horned owls up in Halloween costumes, authorities said.

From Los Angeles Times