merlin
1
9.3
- noun
- /ˈmɜr.lɪn/
:
merlín
- Three merlin sightings were noteworthy because most of these small falcons have migrated south for the winter.
- merlin (a small falcon)
- merlin—small
Examples
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During my hike, I was excited to see a merlin perched on a branch, scanning the ground for prey.
-
Falcons do that; it's seldom they will come for me, save for the little merlins and kestrels.
Fiction book (1993) -
Then, mix in a lot of merlin.
Fiction book (1993) -
The merlins are great and have never let me down, but by the end of this season, I want to be in the 7s, so whatever.
Blog text (13) -
The merlin's dominant interpretations of the Palestinian conflict remain compatible with official policy and responsive to the needs of powerful interest groups.
Academic text (1991) -
While birdwatching in the park, I was thrilled to spot a merlin soaring above the trees.
-
The falconer prepared to train his merlin, a small and agile falcon known for its speed.
Synonyms
114
2.7
A bird that hunts other animals, has long pointed wings, and flies very fast
A small falcon with dark feathers and a striped tail that hunts small birds
A small hunting bird that catches other birds like pigeons
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word merlin comes from Old French merle meaning 'blackbird' plus the small ending -in, so it originally meant 'little blackbird'. That image helps: a merlin is a small, dark falcon prized by falconers for its speed and skill.