Definition of towhee
1
: a long-tailed passerine bird (Pipilo erythrophthalmus of the family Emberizidae) of eastern North America with the male having reddish sides, white underparts, and black upperparts, head, and neck
— called also chewink
2
: any various similar related birds (genera Pipilo and Melozone) found mainly in western North America
Note: Towhees live primarily on the ground, often in bushes and thickets, where they feed on insects and seeds.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for towhee
The first known use of towhee was circa 1729
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