purple sandpiper

noun

1. a sandpiper, Calidris maritima, of Arctic regions of the New and Old World, having in winter a slate-gray back with purplish reflections.

Word History and Origins

Origin of purple sandpiper¹

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

Ludwig Kumlien says that the purple sandpiper is the first wader to arrive in the spring at Cumberland Sound.

From Project Gutenberg

But in Iceland and at the southern borders of its breeding range generally the purple sandpiper usually nests on the fells.

From Project Gutenberg

The eggs of the purple sandpiper are four in number and remarkably handsome.

From Project Gutenberg

The purple sandpiper is a stockily built bird, which stands low and has a moderately long bill.

From Project Gutenberg

The Purple Sandpiper may pair for life, as there is some evidence to show that it returns annually to certain spots, to breed.

From Project Gutenberg