moa

[moh-uh]

noun

any of several flightless birds of the family Dinornithidae, of New Zealand, related to the kiwis but resembling the ostrich: extinct since about the end of the 18th century.

Origin of moa

Borrowed into English from Maori around 1810–20

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for moa

Historical Examples of moa

Moa had been near him; and as though by pre-arrangement with him she now accosted me.
Astounding Stories of Super-Science, March 1930
Various
All the passengers were herded there, with Miko and Moa alternating on guard.
Astounding Stories of Super-Science April 1930
Various
Miko was now confronting me; at the door Moa stood watching.
Astounding Stories of Super-Science April 1930
Various
Moa was saying, "I would like to tell you our plans, Gregg."
Astounding Stories of Super-Science April 1930
Various
I was thinking, Moa, when we land at the Moon to-morrow—where is our equipment?
Astounding Stories of Super-Science April 1930
Various

British Dictionary definitions for moa

moa

noun

any large flightless bird of the recently extinct order Dinornithiformes of New ZealandSee ratite

Word Origin for moa

C19: from Māori

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for moa

extinct, flightless bird of New Zealand, 1842, native Maori name.