sheldrake

[ shel-dreyk ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

, plural shel·drakes, (especially collectively) shel·drake.

any of several Old World ducks of the genus Tadorna, certain species of which have highly variegated plumage.
any of various other ducks, especially the goosander or merganser.

1275–1325; Middle English sheldedrake, equivalent to sheld particolored + drake drake ¹

Mr. Sheldrake coughed, and the policeman coughed in sympathy.

Ready of speech and smooth of manner was Mr. Sheldrake as he addressed Lily.

She did not see him; all her attention was fixed upon Mr. Sheldrake's words.

Or was it from Mr. Sheldrake himself, reminding him of his obligation to that gentleman?

"I brought her," replied Mr. Sheldrake with a pleasant chuckle.

Browse