wood pigeon

noun

Also called ringdove. a European pigeon, Columba palumbus, having a whitish patch on each side of the neck.
band-tailed pigeon.

Origin of wood pigeon

First recorded in 1660–70

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Examples from the Web for wood pigeon

Historical Examples of wood pigeon

The Partridges of Louisiana are not larger than a wood-pigeon.
The History of Louisiana
Le Page Du Pratz
The wood-pigeon is large, and the flesh dark coloured: if properly kept, and not over roasted, the flavour is equal to teal.
The Cook and Housekeeper's Complete and Universal Dictionary; Including a System of Modern Cookery, in all Its Various Branches,
Mary Eaton
Presently there came the “coo” of a wood-pigeon from in front.
Danger! and Other Stories
Arthur Conan Doyle
While he lay thus, a wood-pigeon flew in through the window.
The Crimson Fairy Book
Various
It is well-known in England by the name of “wood-pigeon,” and in France it is called ramier.
Bruin
Mayne Reid

British Dictionary definitions for wood pigeon

wood pigeon

noun

a large Eurasian pigeon, Columba palumbus, having white patches on the wings and neckAlso called: ringdove, cushat

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012