# heron

/ˈhɛɹən/ (US) · /hˈɛɹən/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/heron
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a large bird with long legs and a long neck that lives near water. It usually stands very still while waiting to catch fish with its sharp beak.

For teachers: a large, long-legged wading bird belonging to the family Ardeidae, typically inhabiting wetlands and coastal regions. Characterised by a long S-shaped neck and a sharp, spear-like bill used for hunting aquatic prey.

## Examples

- A grey heron stands perfectly still by the lake.
- The heron waited patiently in the shallow water before suddenly striking at a passing fish with its beak.
- As the sun began to set over the marshlands, the solitary heron took flight, its broad wings beating slowly against the darkening sky as it moved toward its nesting site.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.