killdeer

[ kil-deer ]

noun

1. an American plover, Charadrius vociferus, having two black bands around the upper breast.

killdeer

/ ˈkɪlˌdɪə /

noun

1. a large brown-and-white North American plover, Charadrius vociferus, with two black breast bands and a noisy cry

Word History and Origins

Origin of killdeer¹

An Americanism dating back to 1725–35; imitative

Word History and Origins

Origin of killdeer¹

C18: of imitative origin

Example Sentences

The scout seized "killdeer" in his left hand, and elevating it about his head, he shook it in triumph at his enemies.

From Project Gutenberg

Then a night hawk screamed, a whip-poor-will complained, a belated killdeer swept the sky, and the night wind sang a louder song.

From Project Gutenberg

He tore away the ribbon, and knotted it to the stock of Killdeer, which had been the gift of the girl herself.

From Project Gutenberg

The Iroquois on the opposite shore was in the act of aiming when the fatal messenger from Killdeer arrived.

From Project Gutenberg

It is singular that no one speaks; no one returns the fire from the boats; and I have left Killdeer in the block!

From Project Gutenberg