gray jay

noun

1. a gray jay, Perisoreus canadensis, of northern North America, noted for its boldness in stealing food from houses, traps, camps, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of gray jay¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

It was absolutely still, except for the occasional call of a gray jay in the timber or the chatter of a flock of cross-bills.

From Project Gutenberg

He passed beneath an alder branch whereon perched a big slate-gray jay.

From Project Gutenberg

The large gray jay was numerous and there were many magpies and rusty and yellow-headed grakles.

From Project Gutenberg

A gray jay now and then screeched his approach to unseen denizens of the woods.

From Project Gutenberg