blue crane

American  

noun

1. the great blue heron.

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Etymology

Origin of blue crane

An Americanism dating back to 1775–85

Example Sentences

This delightful red wine is bright in flavor and light in body, almost airborne like the blue crane — South Africa’s endangered national bird — it is named for.

From Washington Post

Proceeds benefit blue crane conservation efforts of the International Crane Foundation and the Endangered Wildlife Trust.

From Washington Post

He quickly snapped photos of a little blue crane holding electrical plugs the size of milk jugs.

From New York Times

In 1999, the “Big Blue” crane collapsed at a stadium in Milwaukee and killed three workers.

From Seattle Times

At its center, above an image of the foundering vessel, is a blue crane in flight, which represents the departing souls of the dead.

From The New Yorker