merlin

noun mer·lin \ ˈmər-lən \

Definition of merlin

: a small compact falcon (Falco columbarius) of the northern hemisphere having a broad dark terminal band on the tail and upperparts that are slate blue in males and brown in females

Recent Examples of merlin from the Web

Without considering merlins' impact, the piping plover population was otherwise projected to continue rebounding to 91 pairs by 2026.

— keith matheny, Detroit Free Press, "Endangered piping plover's recovery may get derailed, thanks to another bird," 23 Jan. 2018
Factoring in merlins' rebound caused the projection of piping plover populations in the Great Lakes region to drop to 67 pairs within a decade, according to the new MSU modeling.

— keith matheny, Detroit Free Press, "Endangered piping plover's recovery may get derailed, thanks to another bird," 23 Jan. 2018

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

Origin and Etymology of merlin

Middle English merlioun, from Anglo-French merilun, alteration of esmerilun, diminutive of Old French esmeril, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German smiril merlin

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 14th century

in the meaning defined above

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