wryneck

American  

[rahy-nek] / ˈraɪˌnɛk /

noun

1. Informal.

   1. torticollis.

   2. a person having torticollis.

2. any of several small Old World climbing birds of the subfamily Jynginae, of the woodpecker family, noted for the peculiar habit of twisting the head and neck.

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wryneck British  

/ ˈraɪˌnɛk /

noun

1. either of two cryptically coloured Old World woodpeckers, Jynx torquilla or J. ruficollis, which do not drum on trees

2. another name for torticollis

3. informal a person who has a twisted neck

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Etymology

Origin of wryneck

First recorded in 1575–85; wry + neck

Example Sentences

A particularly unsettling development has the sister cities of St. Pete and Tampa at each other's wryneck throats.

From Time Magazine Archive

I have lingered long over the wryneck, but have still a story to relate of this bird—not a fairy tale this time, but true.

From Birds in Town and Village by Hudson, W. H. (William Henry)

During the talk that followed I asked him if he knew the wryneck, and if it ever nested in his orchard.

From Birds in Town and Village by Hudson, W. H. (William Henry)

Says the author quoted above: "When the sitting bird is interfered with, she defends her treasures with great courage, hissing like a wryneck, and vigorously striking at her aggressor with her sharp bill."

From Our Bird Comrades by Keyser, Leander S. (Leander Sylvester)

The wryneck and the woodpecker may be mentioned; and a still better instance is afforded by the small, gem-like kingfisher—the only British bird which can properly be described as gem-like.

From Birds in Town and Village by Hudson, W. H. (William Henry)