scoter

[ skoh-ter ]

noun

, plural sco·ters, (especially collectively) sco·ter.

1. any of the large diving ducks of the genus Melanitta, inhabiting northern parts of the Northern Hemisphere.

scoter

/ ˈskəʊtə /

noun

1. any sea duck of the genus Melanitta, such as M. nigra ( common scoter ), of northern regions. The male plumage is black with white patches around the head and eyes

Word History and Origins

Origin of scoter¹

First recorded in 1665–75; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of scoter¹

C17: origin unknown

Example Sentences

The American Scoter is entirely black without markings; base of bill yellow and orange.

From Project Gutenberg

The nest of the Scoter is described as being like that of the Eider Duck, and similarly located.

From Project Gutenberg

The scoter is entirely black; it dives remarkably well, and can remain a long time under water.

From Project Gutenberg

The surf scoter is the rarest of the three British species, and is intermediate in size between the two last.

From Project Gutenberg

The note of the Surf Scoter is to me the most pleasing of all the ducks.

From Project Gutenberg