redpoll

noun red·poll \ ˈred-ˌpōl \

Definition of redpoll

: either of two small finches (genus Carduelis synonym Acanthis of the family Fringillidae) having brownish streaked plumage and a red or rosy crown; especially : one (C. flammea) found in northern regions of both the New and Old World

Recent Examples of redpoll from the Web

Meanwhile, the irruptive species—birds who irregularly migrate—like crossbills, redpolls, grosbeaks, and purple finches stayed north, resulting in lower talleys for the annual count in most of the United States.

— mika mckinnon, Smithsonian, "Birdwatch for Science this Holiday Season," 15 Dec. 2017

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

First Known Use of redpoll

1728

in the meaning defined above

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NEW! Time Traveler

red poll

noun, often capitalized R&P

Definition of red poll

: any of a breed of large hornless red beef cattle of English origin

Origin and Etymology of red poll

alteration of red polled

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1873

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

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