noun
falcon
FAL-kun/ˈfælkən/
A fast-flying bird of prey with pointed wings.
The falcon banks in flight, its pointed wings spread wide.
Etymology
Latin falco probably derives from falx, “sickle,” suggesting a curved feature of the bird. The proposed resemblance could involve its talons, legs, beak, or spread wings; the naming connection is not certain.
In context
wings they're the fastest flying birds on earth it's the peregrine falcon here
More examples
- A falcon dives toward a flock of pigeons.
- Some falcons nest on ledges of tall buildings.
- The trained falcon returns to the handler's glove.
Forms
falcon · falcons
falconer noun — A person who trains falcons for hunting.
Similar words
- bird of prey
- A broader term that includes hawks, eagles, and owls.
- raptor
- A general name for predatory birds, not specifically falcons.