falcon

noun

fal·​con ˈfal-kən How to pronounce falcon (audio) ˈfȯl- How to pronounce falcon (audio)
 also  ˈfȯ-kən
1
: any of various hawks trained for use in falconry
especially : peregrine falcon
used technically only of a female
compare tiercel
2
: any of various hawks (family Falconidae) that have long pointed wings, a long tail, and a notched beak and that usually inhabit open areas

Illustration of falcon

Illustration of falcon
  • 1 hood
  • 2 jess
  • 3 gauntlet

Examples of falcon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Thousands of tree swallows float down the coast, rising into snow globe formations when a deadly falcon appears on the scene. Literary Hub, 4 Nov. 2025 There were two days devoted to casual and streetwear brands in Riyadh’s warehouse district, with several models in the RBA show on Sunday accessorized with hooded falcons, which didn’t seem to mind the pounding dance music. Miles Socha, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2025 Weather permitting, there will be a falcon flight demonstration. Joan Morris, Mercury News, 21 Oct. 2025 The County of San Diego Parks and Recreation’s annual celebration of local birds of prey, including hawks, owls and falcons, Guests can meet ambassador birds up close and learn about their unique behaviors. Ramona Sentinel, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for falcon

Word History

Etymology

Middle English faucoun, falcon, from Anglo-French faucon, from Late Latin falcon-, falco, probably from Latin falc-, falx

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of falcon was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Falcon.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/falcon. Accessed 8 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

falcon

noun
fal·​con ˈfal-kən How to pronounce falcon (audio) ˈfȯl- How to pronounce falcon (audio)
 also  ˈfȯ-kən
1
: a hawk trained for use in falconry
2
: any of various swift hawks with long pointed wings, a long tail, and a notch on the upper half of the beak for killing prey

More from Merriam-Webster on falcon

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