swallow-tailed kite

noun

1. an American kite, Elanoides forficatus, having black upper parts, white head and underparts, and a long, deeply forked tail.

Word History and Origins

Origin of swallow-tailed kite¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

At 575 W. 155th St., my jaw dropped when I saw the gigantic mural of a swallow-tailed kite by artist Lunar New Year covering the side of a five-story apartment building.

From Washington Post

The white ibis, swallow-tailed kite and wood stork also get mentioned.

From Seattle Times

“When you hear 70 or so people behind you exploding about a swallow-tailed kite coming overhead, those are the special moments,” Payne said.

From Washington Times

The painting of a swallow-tailed kite, completed in early October in Upper Manhattan, includes 12 other species embedded in its plumage.

From Wall Street Journal

"A swallow-tailed kite," Knight said as the bird dropped suddenly into clearer view.

From Project Gutenberg