merlin
n. countablen. a small, fast bird of prey that belongs to the falcon family. It is known for its speed and for hunting smaller birds in open areas.
n. a small species of falcon, Falco columbarius, characterized by its compact build and rapid, low-level flight during hunting.
The merlin flew quickly across the field to catch its prey.
Birdwatchers gathered at the coast to spot the merlin as it migrated south for the winter.
Unlike larger raptors that soar at great heights, the merlin typically hunts by flying fast and low over open moorland to surprise smaller avian species.
From Middle English Merlyn, from Medieval Latin Merlinus and Old French Merlin, from Proto-Brythonic Mor-ðin (literally “sea-hill”), from Proto-Celtic mori (“sea”) + *dūnom (“stronghold, rampart”).
Refers specifically to the bird of prey; when referring to the Arthurian wizard, it is a proper noun and must be capitalized.