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saw-whet owl

noun
\ˈsȯ-ˌhwet-, -ˌwet-\

Definition of saw-whet owl 

: a very small harsh-voiced North American owl (Aegolius acadicus) that is largely dark brown above and chestnut streaked with white beneath

— called also saw-whet

First Known Use of saw-whet owl

1834, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for saw-whet owl

from the supposed resemblance of its cry to the sound made in filing a saw

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Dictionary Entries near saw-whet owl

saw tree

saw up

sawway

saw-whet owl

sawwort

sawyer

sax

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The first known use of saw-whet owl was in 1834

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