coucal

[ koo-kuhl ]

noun

1. any of several Old World cuckoos of the genus Centropus, having harsh-textured plumage and a long, daggerlike hind claw.

coucal

/ ˈkuːkæl; -kəl /

noun

1. any ground-living bird of the genus Centropus, of Africa, S Asia, and Australia, having long strong legs: family Cuculidae (cuckoos)

Word History and Origins

Origin of coucal¹

1805–15; < French, said to be equivalent to couc ( ou ) cuckoo + al ( ouette ) lark

Word History and Origins

Origin of coucal¹

C19: from French, perhaps from couc ( ou ) cuckoo + al ( ouette ) lark

Example Sentences

The nest of the crow-pheasant or coucal is a massive structure, globular in shape, with the entrance at one side.

From Project Gutenberg

But for the fact that the brown wings do not match well with the rest of the plumage, I should call the coucal a handsome bird.

From Project Gutenberg

I have never actually observed it pick anything off a leaf, for the coucal is of a retiring disposition.

From Project Gutenberg

Unfortunately for the peace of mankind the coucal is not the only cuckoo that lifts up its voice in the night.

From Project Gutenberg

The coucal or crow-pheasant, for example, is divided up into three local races.

From Project Gutenberg