Lexic.us

Definition of Bittern

1. Noun. Relatively small compact tawny-brown heron with nocturnal habits and a booming cry; found in marshes.

Definition of Bittern

1. n. A wading bird of the genus Botaurus, allied to the herons, of various species.

2. n. The brine which remains in salt works after the salt is concreted, having a bitter taste from the chloride of magnesium which it contains.

Definition of Bittern

1. a wading bird [n -S]

Medical Definition of Bittern

1. A wading bird of the genus Botaurus, allied to the herons, of various species. The common European bittern is Botaurus stellaris. It makes, during the brooding season, a noise called by Dryden bumping, and by Goldsmith booming. The American bittern is B. Lentiginosus, and is also called stake-driver and meadow hen. See Stake-driver. The name is applied to other related birds, as the least bittern (Ardetta exilis), and the sun bittern. Origin: OE. Bitoure, betore, bitter, fr. F. Butor; of unknown origin. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998)

Lexicographical Neighbors of Bittern

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