owl

noun

ˈau̇(-ə)l 

: any of an order (Strigiformes) of chiefly nocturnal birds of prey with a large head and eyes, short hooked bill, strong talons, and soft fluffy often brown-mottled plumage

Examples of owl in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The debate has become an emotional flashpoint in the conservation world, forcing scientists, wildlife officials and advocates to grapple with the difficult question of whether killing one owl species is the only remaining way to save another. —Moná Thomas, PEOPLE, 9 June 2026

Each jean has durable ecru twill pocket lining, copper rivets and Hiut’s signature red owl rivet on the left back pocket. —Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 8 June 2026

Texas also protects a variety of other wildlife, including bats, hawks, owls, whooping cranes and all species of sea turtles, according to TPWD. —Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 June 2026

If possible, place a barrier, like a light basket (easy for mom to tip over) with a loose weave (so enough air can flow through) over the squirrels to keep them safe from other predators such as hawks and owls. —Michelle Mastro, Martha Stewart, 7 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English owle, from Old English ūle; akin to Old High German uwila owl

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing owl

• barn owl
• barred owl
• burrowing owl
• elf owl
• great horned owl
• horned owl
• night owl
• northern spotted owl
• owl monkey
• saw-whet owl
• screech owl
• short-eared owl
• snowy owl
• spotted owl

Rhymes for owl

• foul
• foule
• fowl
• growl
• howl
• jowl
• prowl
• scowl
• afoul
• wildfowl
• waterfowl

Kids Definition

owl

noun

ˈau̇(ə)l 

: any of an order of birds of prey that are active mainly at night and that have a broad head, very large eyes, and a powerful hooked beak and claws