prothonotary warbler

noun

1. a wood warbler, Protonotaria citrea, of the eastern U.S., having an orange-yellow head and underparts, and bluish-gray wings and tail.

Word History and Origins

Origin of prothonotary warbler¹

An Americanism dating back to 1780–90; so called because its coloration resembles the robes traditionally worn by prothonotaries

Example Sentences

Another of this family conspicuous for its brilliant coloring is the prothonotary warbler.

From Project Gutenberg

That day I found the first nest of the prothonotary warbler.

From Project Gutenberg

Wayne heard one singing exactly like a prothonotary warbler, this song lasting for more than 20 minutes.

From Project Gutenberg

I hoped it was a prothonotary warbler, a bird I had never seen, and about whose notes I knew nothing.

From Project Gutenberg