purple finch

noun

1. a North American finch, Carpodacus purpureus, having a raspberry-red head, breast, and rump.

Word History and Origins

Origin of purple finch¹

An Americanism dating back to 1720–30

Example Sentences

But the identification of the purple finch, after all, depends quite as much upon his song as his color.

From Project Gutenberg

From the tree tops below the clear warble of the purple finch proclaimed that under the fronds twilight had fallen.

From Project Gutenberg

Now listen to the purple finch as he perches on highest twig, proclaiming his arrival with no uncertain sound.

From Project Gutenberg

His purple finch is as brilliant as a rose, whereas at its best, this bird is a dull carmine.

From Project Gutenberg

The goldfinch in bright yellow coat, the purple finch in red, and the sparrows in plain brown.

From Project Gutenberg