rough-winged swallow

[ruhf-wingd] /ˈrʌfˌwɪŋd/

noun

either of two New World swallows of the genus Stelgidopteryx, having outer primary feathers with small barblike hooks on the margins.

any of several African swallows of the genus Psalidoprocne, having similar feathers.

Origin of rough-winged swallow

1830-1840

An Americanism dating back to 1830-40

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Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2017.
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Examples from the Web for rough-winged swallow

Historical Examples

The rough-winged swallow builds in the wall and in old stone-heaps, and I have seen the robin build in similar localities.

In the Catskills John Burroughs
The rough-winged swallow builds in the wall and in old stone heaps, and I have seen the robin build in similar localities.

Wake-Robin John Burroughs
Only their cousin, the rough-winged swallow, whose breast is brownish gray, is so plainly dressed.

Birds Every Child Should Know Neltje Blanchan

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