# merlin

/ˈmɝɫɪn/ (US) · /mˈɜːlɪn/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. a bird of prey

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a small, fast falcon that lives in northern parts of the world and hunts small birds.

For teachers: a small species of falcon, Falco columbarius, noted for its speed and agility in hunting small passerines.

- We watched a merlin dive quickly toward the bushes to catch its prey.
- The merlin is a formidable predator despite its diminutive size, often seen patrolling open moorlands for small birds during the winter months.

### 2. the legendary wizard

noun · CEFR B2

the famous wizard who helps King Arthur in old British legends.

For teachers: the legendary figure and powerful enchanter featured in Arthurian myth as a mentor to King Arthur.

- In the story, Merlin uses his magic to help Arthur become the king.
- Medieval literature often portrays Merlin as a complex figure caught between his prophetic powers and his loyalty to the crown.

### 3. a protein

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a special protein in the body that helps stop tumors from growing.

For teachers: a tumor-suppressor protein, also known as neurofibromin 2, involved in regulating the cytoskeleton.

- Scientists are studying how the merlin protein prevents cancer cells from spreading.
- Deficiencies in the production of the merlin protein are closely linked to the development of certain types of benign nervous system tumors.

## Examples

- 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.

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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.