limpkin

[ limp-kin ]
/ ˈlɪmp kɪn /

noun

a large, loud-voiced, wading bird, Aramus guarauna, intermediate in size and character between the cranes and the rails, of the warmer regions of America.

Origin of limpkin

1870–75, Americanism; limp1 + -kin; so called because of its jerky walk

Words nearby limpkin

limp, limp wrist, limp-wristed, limpet, limpid, limpkin, limpopo, limpsy, limulus, limulus-lysate test, limy

Example sentences from the Web for limpkin

  • They can run rapidly, having a peculiar mincing gait, that is said to have given them the name of Limpkin.

    Bird Guide |Chester A. Reed

  • The Limpkin is a singular inhabitant of the more retired Florida swamps.

    Color Key to North American Birds |Frank M. Chapman

British Dictionary definitions for limpkin

limpkin
/ (ˈlɪmpkɪn) /

noun

a rail-like wading bird, Aramus guarauna, of tropical American marshes, having dark brown plumage with white markings and a wailing cry: order Gruiformes (cranes, rails, etc) Also called: courlan

Word Origin for limpkin

C19: named from its awkward gait