peregrine falcon

American  

noun

1. a globally distributed falcon, Falco peregrinus, much used in falconry because of its swift flight: several subspecies are endangered.

---

peregrine falcon British  

noun

1. a falcon, Falco peregrinus, occurring in most parts of the world, having a dark plumage on the back and wings and lighter underparts See also duck hawk

---

Etymology

Origin of peregrine falcon

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

---

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

peregrine falcon

"It's a privilege not only to treat such a magnificent bird as a peregrine falcon, but also to release her and see her fly again so well."

From BBC ● Aug. 2, 2026

“He is a mix between a bird of prey, like a peregrine falcon, with extremely streamlined shapes — of course a feline but also a Mexican salamander called an axolotl,” Otto says.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 14, 2025

Partnering with the Urban Raptor Conservancy, Expedia hosts a rooftop peregrine falcon nest — employees can watch nature unfold via a recently installed webcam.

From Seattle Times ● May 25, 2024

Photographer Jack Zhi's dramatic picture of a female peregrine falcon protecting her young has won this year's Bird Photographer of the Year award.

From BBC ● Sep. 4, 2023

“The peregrine falcon is the world’s fastest animal when it’s in its hunting stoop. It can dive at speeds near two hundred miles per hour.”

From "A Bird Will Soar" by Alison Green Myers

Random Word

Spin the wheel and learn a new word!

---