roadrunner

American  

[rohd-ruhn-er] / ˈroʊdˌrʌn ər /

noun

1. either of two large terrestrial cuckoos of the genus Geococcyx of arid regions of the western U.S., Mexico, and Central America, especially G. californianus greater roadrunner.

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roadrunner British  

/ ˈrəʊdˌrʌnə /

noun

1. Also called: chaparral cock.  a terrestrial crested bird, Geococcyx californianus , of Central and S North America, having a streaked plumage and long tail: family Cuculidae (cuckoos)

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Etymology

Origin of roadrunner

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60; road + runner

Compare meaning

How does roadrunner compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• roadrunner vs. rattlesnake

Example Sentences

“There goes a roadrunner,” said Kocourek, pointing to a flash in the brush.

From Los Angeles Times

For instance, he was born with a distinctive, high-pitched voice, and his nickname, Rivi, was based on a Colombian cartoon character named Rivera, who was a roadrunner with a high voice, Newman says.

From Los Angeles Times

The second time, I saw it run out of the woods, screech to a halt, and start eating, just like that roadrunner in the cartoons.

From Literature

“It’s like watching the coyote catch the roadrunner.”

From Scientific American

A well-meaning duck, hardwired with aquatic mobility skills, may not have the perspective to coach a roadrunner in competitive swimming.

From Seattle Times