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turtledove

noun
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tur·​tle·​dove | \ ˈtər-tᵊl-ˌdəv How to pronounce turtledove (audio) \

Definition of turtledove

: any of several small, wild, African and Eurasian pigeons (genus Streptopelia and especially S. turtur) noted for plaintive cooing

Examples of turtledove in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Hello, turtledoves, and welcome back to another edition of This Week in Timothée Chalamet. — Cady Drell, Marie Claire, 21 Dec. 2018

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

First Known Use of turtledove

14th century, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for turtledove

Middle English turtul douve, turtill dowfe "the dove Streptopelia turtur," from turtul, turtill turtle entry 3 + douve, dowfe dove entry 1

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The first known use of turtledove was in the 14th century

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Dictionary Entries Near turtledove

turtle deck

turtledove

turtle grass

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Cite this Entry

“Turtledove.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turtledove. Accessed 4 Jul. 2022.

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More Definitions for turtledove

turtledove

noun
tur·​tle·​dove | \ ˈtər-tᵊl-ˌdəv How to pronounce turtledove (audio) \

Kids Definition of turtledove

: a small wild pigeon that has a low soft cry

More from Merriam-Webster on turtledove

Nglish: Translation of turtledove for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about turtledove

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