sea swallow

noun

1. any of several terns, especially Sterna hirundo.
2. British Dialect. any of several small petrels, especially the storm petrel, Hydrobates pelagicus.

sea swallow

noun

1. a popular name for tern 1

Word History and Origins

Origin of sea swallow¹

First recorded in 1590–1600

Example Sentences

One of the finest being the swift sea swallow, with its lovely grey feathers, forked tail, and long graceful wings.

From Project Gutenberg

Any moment the ice may crumble beneath our feet and the sea swallow up the entire party.

From Project Gutenberg

We also met with here the common sea-gull, sea-swallow, tern, and Port Egmont hen; the last of which were tame and numerous.

From Project Gutenberg

The sea-swallow, whirling through the azure heavens, soars thus over the blade of grass that marks its nest.

From Project Gutenberg

"Yonder is a sea-swallow, flying away across the water," said the children when they saw the white bird.

From Project Gutenberg