noun
harpy
A large, powerful eagle of tropical American forests.
The harpy grips a thick branch high in the rainforest canopy.
Etymology
The eagle takes its name from the powerful birdlike monster. Its imposing size and predatory character supplied the comparison with the mythological Harpy.
More examples
- A harpy can carry a monkey in its powerful talons.
- We scan the treetops for harpies during our forest hike.
- The harpy's broad wings help it maneuver among the trees.
Forms
harpy · harpies
Similar words
- eagle
- Names a broader group, not specifically this tropical forest bird.