homing pigeon

[ hoh-ming pij-uhn ]

noun

1. any pigeon used to carry messages and equipped by training and breeding to fly home, sometimes from great distances.

homing pigeon

noun

1. any breed of pigeon developed for its homing instinct, used for carrying messages or for racing Also calledhomer

Word History and Origins

Origin of homing pigeon¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

She knew not what or whom she sought; there was just this blind unerring instinct in her soul, the instinct of the homing pigeon.

From Project Gutenberg

The ordinary homing pigeon is best adapted for the purpose, being an inexpensive purchase.

From Project Gutenberg

The FW's dropped in behind, unable to head him off, but the Me's came on like falcons trapping a homing pigeon.

From Project Gutenberg

And always, whether he walked in reason or in delirium, his course held eastward, straight as a homing pigeon for its loft.

From Project Gutenberg

There is a wonderful type of woman, however, who goes as straight to the man she loves as a homing pigeon to its loft.

From Project Gutenberg