|
|
Definition of Secretary bird
1. Noun. Large long-legged African bird of prey that feeds on reptiles.
Generic synonyms: Bird Of Prey, Raptor, Raptorial Bird
Group relationships: Genus Sagittarius, Sagittarius
Definition of Secretary bird
1. Noun. A large bird of prey, ''Sagittarius serpentarius'', native to Africa with very long legs, so named because of its crest of long feathers resembling quill pens stuck behind the ears of an office clerk. It preys on reptiles, especially snakes. ¹
¹ Source: wiktionary.com
Lexicographical Neighbors of Secretary Bird
Literary usage of Secretary bird
Below you will find example usage of this term as found in modern and/or classical literature:
1. Encyclopaedia Britannica: A Standard Work of Reference in Art, Literature (1907)
"SECRETARY-BIRD, a very singular African animal first accurately made known, from
an example living in the menagerie of the prince of Orange, ..."
2. A Dictionary of Science, Literature, & Art: Comprising the Definitions and by George William Cox (1867)
"... has a secretary to conduct his correspondence, the latter appointment bt-ing
generally given to a paymaster or an assistant paymaster. secretary bird. ..."
3. Penny Cyclopaedia of the Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge by Charles Knight (1838)
"Though I have very frequently seen the secretary bird, both in its wild and tame
state, yet I have never had an opportunity of seeing this method it has of ..."
Other Resources:
Navajo