chimney swift

American  

noun

1. an American swift, Chateura pelagica, which often builds its nest in an unused chimney.

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chimney swift British  

noun

1. a North American swift, Chaetura pelagica, that nests in chimneys and similar hollows

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Etymology

Origin of chimney swift

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

The term has been used in reference to the behavior of the common swift, a close cousin of the chimney swift, but this behavior is likely common to the swift family.

From Washington Post • Oct. 15, 2021

This morning, I’ve been watching a chimney swift diving around.

From New York Times • May 26, 2016

For instance, Managing Editor T. S. Matthews dropped a footnote � definitely on the learned side � from a Science story about the chimney swift.

From Time Magazine Archive

The chimney swift or swallow uses wood and glue in making the pretty little bracket-like basket he fastens to the chimney wall.

From Friends and Helpers by Eddy, Sarah J.

Well, the chimney swift carries a gluepot with him.

From Friends and Helpers by Eddy, Sarah J.