limpkin

noun

limp·​kin ˈlim(p)-kən How to pronounce limpkin (audio)
: a large brown wading bird (Aramus guarauna) of southern Georgia, Florida, and Central and South America that resembles a bittern but has a longer slightly curved bill, longer neck and legs, and white stripes on head and neck

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Wildlife-lovers flock to Brazos Bend to check out the swampy wetlands and woodlands and hang with alligators, armadillos and a limpkin. Diana Spechler, Chron, 14 Oct. 2021 The limpkin's unmistakable voice was said to be audible at 500 yards (about a third of a mile). Jim Williams, Star Tribune, 15 June 2021 Egrets, turkeys, herons, limpkin and ducks are among some of the birds visitors might see during their park visit. Patrick Connolly, orlandosentinel.com, 13 Aug. 2019 Guests may also see mullet leaping out of the water; herons and limpkin foraging for food; and turtles basking on sunny logs. Patrick Connolly, orlandosentinel.com, 13 Aug. 2019 There were the usual citizens of kingfishers, turtles, limpkins, herons, big fish and others. Kevin Spear, OrlandoSentinel.com, 1 June 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'limpkin.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from limp entry 1

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of limpkin was in 1871

Dictionary Entries Near limpkin

Cite this Entry

“Limpkin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/limpkin. Accessed 29 Mar. 2023.

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