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linnet

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lin·​net | \ ˈli-nət How to pronounce linnet (audio) \

Definition of linnet

: a common small brownish Old World finch (Acanthis cannabina) of which the male has red on the breast and crown during breeding season

Examples of linnet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Sparrows, chaffinches, linnets, and several coastal African birds arrived to the island in 1863. — National Geographic, 8 May 2017

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

First Known Use of linnet

circa 1530, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for linnet

Middle French linette, from lin flax, from Latin linum; from its feeding on flax seeds

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The first known use of linnet was circa 1530

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Dictionary Entries Near linnet

linneon

linnet

linnet hole

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Cite this Entry

“Linnet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/linnet. Accessed 16 Aug. 2022.

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More from Merriam-Webster on linnet

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about linnet

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