Word
harrier
Phoneticshar·ri·er
US/ˈhɛɹiɝ/
UK/hˈæɹɪɐ/
Definition
n. a type of hawk that flies very low to the ground when hunting. It is known for its ability to hover in one place while looking for prey.
n. any of several species of medium-sized raptors in the genus Circus, characterized by their low-level flight and hovering ability. Often used in the context of military aviation to refer to the British jet fighter.
Examples
“The harrier hovered just above the grass to spot a mouse.”
“During the spring migration, the harrier can be seen flying low over the marshes in search of small mammals.”
“The harrier's unique flight pattern allows it to remain nearly stationary in the air, providing a distinct advantage when stalking prey in tall grass or dense vegetation.”
Examples
simple
“The harrier hovered just above the grass to spot a mouse.”
contextual
“During the spring migration, the harrier can be seen flying low over the marshes in search of small mammals.”
complex
“The harrier's unique flight pattern allows it to remain nearly stationary in the air, providing a distinct advantage when stalking prey in tall grass or dense vegetation.”
Real-World Examples
“Marsh harriers, bearded tits, flocks of waders and overwintering ducks and geese are a regular sight for visitors, along with otters, water voles, fen raft spiders, orchids and rare sharp-leaved pondweed.” “The Montagu Harrier successfully nested for the second year running in the same secret location.” Etymology
From harry + -er.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/harrier