pelican

noun

pel·​i·​can ˈpe-li-kən 

: any of a genus (Pelecanus) of large web-footed fish-eating birds with a very large bill and distensible gular pouch

Examples of pelican in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The pelican was hoisted aboard a fire boat where it was carefully removed from the hook and line. —Devoun Cetoute, Miami Herald, 6 Jan. 2026

The pelican was becoming a little lump in the snow when the sun started to set and the citizen contacted Iowa Bird Rehabilitation. —Lucia Cheng, Des Moines Register, 6 Jan. 2026

Currently, staff care for more than 2,000 animals, including four shark species, dolphins, reptiles, amphibians, fish, Great white pelicans and otters. —Colbi Edmonds, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 Jan. 2026

Then look to the beach to spot shorebirds such as seagulls and pelicans, while the marshes on the island’s backside are frequented by herons, egrets, and ibis. —Kristy Christiansen, Southern Living, 31 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English pellican, from Late Latin pelecanus, from Greek pelekan

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing pelican

• brown pelican
• pelican crossing

Kids Definition

pelican

noun

pel·​i·​can ˈpel-i-kən 

: any of a genus of large web-footed birds with a very large bill having a pouch on the lower part used to scoop in fish for food