turtledove
any of several small to medium-sized Old World doves of the genus Streptopelia, especially S. turtur, of Europe, having a long, graduated tail: noted for its soft, cooing call.
a sweetheart or beloved mate.
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Origin of turtledove
1Words Nearby turtledove
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024
How to use turtledove in a sentence
Another species, also said to be increasing in the country--the turtledove, was extremely abundant.
Birds in Town and Village | W. H. HudsonHence, as he sallies forth to seek the site, he keeps his ear alert for the turtledove's2 prophetic cry.
The Manbos of Mindano | John M. GarvanThis instance will serve to show the uncompromising faith of the Manbo in omens, especially in that of the turtledove.
The Manbos of Mindano | John M. Garvan"I am going to finish this turtledove first, though," said Tabea gayly.
Duffels | Edward EgglestonThe cause or causes of the increase of the turtledove are not far to seek.
Birds in Town and Village | W. H. Hudson
British Dictionary definitions for turtledove
/ (ˈtɜːtəlˌdʌv) /
any of several Old World doves of the genus Streptopelia, having a brown plumage with speckled wings and a long dark tail
a gentle or loving person
Origin of turtledove
1Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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