heath cock

noun

1. the male of the black grouse.

heath cock

noun

1. See blackcock
   another name for blackcock

Word History and Origins

Origin of heath cock¹

First recorded in 1580–90

Example Sentences

The heath-cock retires before the step of the cultivator; the quail passes into Ireland.

From Project Gutenberg

The pheasant and the heath-cock (the latter a black species spotted with white) are found in the woods near Failyun.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. M. shot a large fowl of the grouse kind, larger than the black heath cock in Scotland.

From Project Gutenberg

The roe is in the cleft of the rock; the heath-cock's head is beneath his wing.

From Project Gutenberg