prairie owl

noun

1. burrowing owl.
2. short-eared owl.

Word History and Origins

Origin of prairie owl¹

An Americanism dating back to 1840–50

Example Sentences

He had learned while yet small that the little prairie-owl was their very good neighbor and friend.

From Project Gutenberg

It was eight of the clock when came that final warning whistle of prairie owl.

From Project Gutenberg

Not far off on another log deep in the shade of the highest flags solemnly perches a small prairie-owl.

From Project Gutenberg

No living thing stirred, save now and then a prairie owl flitting through the gloom added to the sombre desolation of the scene.

From Project Gutenberg

The soft, plaintive notes of the night-hawk and prairie-owl mingled with the prolonged cry of the wolf in the distant foothills.

From Project Gutenberg