purple grackle

American  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of purple grackle

An Americanism dating back to 1775–85

Example Sentences

If the purple grackle does not like the sunflower seeds in my garden, lo! he is up and away across the Sound to Oyster Bay, Long Island, where his luck may be better.

From The Minds and Manners of Wild Animals A Book of Personal Observations by Hornaday, William Temple

The most destructive pest with which I have had to contend has been the large black-bird or purple grackle.

From Northern Nut Growers Association Report of the Proceedings at the 43rd Annual Meeting Rockport, Indiana, August 25, 26 and 27, 1952 by Northern Nut Growers Association