roadrunner

[ rohd-ruhn-er ]

noun

1. either of two large terrestrial cuckoos of the genus Geococcyx of arid regions of the western U.S., Mexico, and Central America, especially G. californianus greater roadrunner.

roadrunner

/ ˈrəʊdˌrʌnə /

noun

1. a terrestrial crested bird, Geococcyx californianus , of Central and S North America, having a streaked plumage and long tail: family Cuculidae (cuckoos) Also calledchaparral cock

Word History and Origins

Origin of roadrunner¹

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60; road + runner

Example Sentences

Desert-adapted roadrunners aren’t exactly suited for fall in Maine, so experts are attempting to bring the bird back to its original home.

From Popular-Science

Of course, the usual method of travel for roadrunners isn’t in a moving vehicle—they typically zoom around on two legs, despite having the ability to fly.

From Popular-Science

On their natural racing grounds, greater roadrunners have to contend with coyotes, one of their primary predators.

From Popular-Science

(Contrast this to the 3,000 copies my own 2009 book, Roadrunner, has sold).

From The Daily Beast

(Contrast this to the 3,000 copies my own 2009 book,Roadrunner, has sold).

From The Daily Beast

This makes me think of a curious bird I noticed in my drives at San Diego, the roadrunner, classed with the cuckoo.

From Project Gutenberg

The only living things we met upon these llanos were the jack rabbits and an occasional roadrunner, which birds were very tame.

From Project Gutenberg

The prevailing color of the roadrunner is olive green, which is marked with brown and white.

From Project Gutenberg

The roadrunner, however, serves a better purpose in life than being run down by hounds.

From Project Gutenberg

"Don Coyote," the roadrunner, and other characteristic animals.

From Project Gutenberg