English Reference
noun · verb

falcon

n. · v.
US /ˈfæɫkən/ UK /fˈælkən/ fal·con UK spelling falcons

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a bird of prey with long, pointed wings that is known for flying very fast to catch other animals.

    n.any bird of the genus Falco, typically characterized by a hooked beak and long, pointed wings adapted for high-speed flight.

    Simple

    The falcon dived from the sky at high speed to catch its prey.

    In context

    The peregrine falcon is renowned as the fastest member of the animal kingdom, reaching speeds of over three hundred kilometres per hour during its hunting stoop.

    raptorbird of prey
  2. 02 C2 Proficiency ArchaicTechnical Law

    n.a small, light type of cannon used hundreds of years ago.

    n.a light piece of ordnance or cannon utilized between the 15th and 17th centuries.

    Simple

    The museum displayed an old falcon used to defend the castle walls.

    In context

    The inventory of the 16th-century fortress listed several falcons among the lighter artillery pieces stationed along the ramparts.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Literary Sport

    v.to hunt animals using a trained falcon.

    v.to engage in the sport of hunting with the aid of trained birds of prey.

    Simple

    In the past, kings and queens would often go out to falcon in the woods.

    In context

    The nobility would frequently falcon across the open moors, a practice that required years of patient training for both the bird and the handler.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated