windhover

The common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus).

Noun

  1. The common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus).

Origin

From wind + hover, due to the bird’s habit of hovering by beating the wind with its wings; compare windfucker (attested earlier).

Forms

windhovers

Synonyms

kestrel staniel windfucker windsucker

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