water hen

American  

Or waterhen

noun

1. moorhen.

2. the American coot, Fulica americana.

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water hen British  

noun

1. another name for gallinule

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Etymology

Origin of water hen

First recorded in 1520–30

Example Sentences

This is one of the largest water hens found in Brazil, where it is very rare.

From Project Gutenberg

Drearily a cold swan swept up the water, trailing its black feet, clacking its great hollow wings, rocking the frightened water hens, and insulting the staid black-necked geese.

From Project Gutenberg

“The devil a one of me can see anything or any one, except a fox scampering through the boreen beyond, with a water hen in his mouth,” said Micus.

From Project Gutenberg

The water hens, so lissom in their escape, ran to the floating leaves of the water lilies without going under.

From Project Gutenberg

There are some wood pigeons and two species of doves, and the marshy places are frequented by a few water hens; but neither wild geese nor ducks are known in the island.

From Project Gutenberg