Definition of whip–poor–will
: a nocturnal nightjar (Caprimulgus vociferus) of chiefly eastern North America with a loud repeated call suggestive of its name
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Illustration of whip–poor–will
Origin and Etymology of whip–poor–will
imitative
First Known Use: 1709
WHIP–POOR–WILL Defined for English Language Learners
whip-poor-will
play
noun
Definition of whip–poor–will for English Language Learners
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: a bird of eastern North America that is active at night and has a loud call which sounds like its name
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