Virginia rail

American  

noun

1. a long-billed American rail, Rallus limicola, having blackish and reddish-brown plumage.

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Etymology

Origin of Virginia rail

An Americanism dating back to 1775–85

Example Sentences

Between them runs a lively, gurgling brook, which used to be frequented by woodcock, and the Virginia rail, and passes close by Mrs. Emerson's garden.

From Sketches from Concord and Appledore by Stearns, Frank Preston

The six-muled teams appeared in a few moments and were whipped up alongside of the Virginia rail fence.

From Charles Carleton Coffin War Correspondent, Traveller, Author, and Statesman by Griffis, William Elliot

The broad green pads offer the Virginia rail a secluded perch, where he may consider which quarter of the shining mud flats will prove the best feeding ground for the day.

From Sigurd Our Golden Collie and Other Comrades of the Road by Bates, Katharine Lee

At that time I weighed one hundred and ninety pounds, was in vigorous health and strength, tough as hickory, and could go over or through a Virginia rail fence as deftly as a mule.

From The Story of a Cannoneer Under Stonewall Jackson by Moore, Edward A.

Apparently, the three fellows perched on the Virginia rail fence had agreed to wait for others who were to join them in starting for the favorite "swimmin' hole," for their conversation betrayed this fact.

From Afloat or, Adventures on Watery Trails by Douglas, Alan