Main Entry: her·on

Pronunciation: \ˈher-ən, ˈhe-rən\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural herons also heron

Etymology: Middle English heiroun, hayroun, from Anglo-French heiron, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German heigaro heron

Date: 14th century

: any of various long-necked and long-legged wading birds (family Ardeidae) with a long tapering bill, large wings, and soft plumage