purple grackle

noun

1. the eastern subspecies of the common grackle, Quiscalus quiscula, of North America, having an iridescent purple back.

Word History and Origins

Origin of purple grackle¹

An Americanism dating back to 1775–85

Example Sentences

Now come two black-coated cousins, the purple grackle and shoulder-strapped redwing of the blackbird family.

From Project Gutenberg

The purple grackle is said to eat corn, and also the eggs and young of other birds.

From Project Gutenberg

In proportions it is almost equal to the nest of the Purple Grackle.

From Project Gutenberg

The call-note is louder and more metallic than the purple grackle's.

From Project Gutenberg

The purple grackle is a handsome bird, larger than a robin, with very light eyes.

From Project Gutenberg