curlew
Syllabification: (cur·lew)
Pronunciation: /ˈkərˌlo͞o, ˈkərlˌyo͞o/
Definition of curlew
noun ( plural same or curlews)
- a large wading bird of the sandpiper family, with a long down-curved bill, brown streaked plumage, and frequently a distinctive ascending two-note call. See also stone curlew.
- Genus Numenius, family Scolopacidae: several species, including the common Eurasian N. arquata and the North American long-billed curlew (N. americanus)
Origin:
Middle English: from Old French courlieu, alteration (by association with courliu 'courier', from courre 'run' + lieu 'place') of imitative courlis
