Definition of pelican
: any of a genus (Pelecanus) of large web-footed fish-eating birds with a very large bill and distensible gular pouch
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Recent Examples of pelican from the Web
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Since April the group has taken in 50 of the pelicans noted for their large, pointy beaks.
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Dead fish washed ashore in Amuay, and dozens of pelicans were killed.
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The most reliable place to spot pelicans in Michigan is likely at the Pointe Mouillee State Game Area in Monroe County, said Holly Vaughn, Wildlife Communications Coordinator at the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division.
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Two pelicans crashed the university’s outdoor ceremony over the weekend, The Associated Press reported.
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Birds flocked to its wetlands, turning it into one of the most important stops along the Pacific Flyway, supporting 90% of the migration's white pelicans.
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Il Pellicano,’ for the pelicans that appear frequently on the nearby rocks, this Malibu home was designed with a strong European influence.
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McHale Park An observation deck is perfect for searching for birds such as the American white pelican, herons and egrets.
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White pelicans and a variety of migratory waterfowl have been sighted this month.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'pelican.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of pelican
Middle English, from Old English pellican, from Late Latin pelecanus, from Greek pelekan
NEW! Time Traveler
First Known Use: before 12th century
in the meaning defined above
See Words from the same yearPELICAN Defined for English Language Learners
Definition of pelican for English Language Learners
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: a large ocean bird that has a large bag that is part of its lower bill for catching and holding fish
PELICAN Defined for Kids
Definition of pelican for Students
: a large bird with webbed feet and a very large bill having a pouch on the lower part used to scoop in fish for food
Learn More about pelican
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Spanish Central: Translation of pelican Nglish: Translation of pelican for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of pelican for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about pelican
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