peregrine falcon

American  

noun

1. a globally distributed falcon, Falco peregrinus, much used in falconry because of its swift flight: several subspecies are endangered.

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peregrine falcon British  

noun

1. a falcon, Falco peregrinus, occurring in most parts of the world, having a dark plumage on the back and wings and lighter underparts See also duck hawk

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Etymology

Origin of peregrine falcon

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Example Sentences

“He is a mix between a bird of prey, like a peregrine falcon, with extremely streamlined shapes — of course a feline but also a Mexican salamander called an axolotl,” Otto says.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 14, 2025

Ms Merriman said the video appeared to show the starlings had been successful as the peregrine falcon was not seen to get any of the birds.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2025

"Breathtaking" footage of what was believed to be a peregrine falcon attempting to hunt during a murmuration of thousands of starlings has been captured on video.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2025

A bald eagle and a few seagulls fly over the bridge, and a peregrine falcon and waterfowl fly beneath it.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 12, 2022

“I didn’t go too close because I heard a peregrine falcon call near the ground—then men talking. I was unarmed.”

From "Frightful's Mountain" by Jean Craighead George