Meaning & Definition of word "Pelican"
to
Pelican
/ˈpɛlɪkən/
noun:
- 1. A large web-footed bird with a long bill and a large throat pouch, typically found near water.
- Example: The pelican glided gracefully over the lake, searching for fish.
- 2. Any member of the family Pelecanidae, which includes several species of large aquatic birds.
- Example: During our trip to the coastal wetlands, we spotted several pelicans diving for their meal.
- 3. A type of boat or vessel designed for fishing that resembles a pelican in its shape.
- Example: The fishermen loaded their gear onto the pelican for a long day out on the water.
Etymology
Derived from Middle English 'pelican', from Old French 'pelican', from Late Latin 'pelicanus', from Greek 'pelikan', which stems from a root meaning 'to pluck' or 'to gather'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
pelican brief:
A term used to describe a brief written in support of a legal argument, often by an amicus curiae.
Related Words
flock:
A group of pelicans or similar birds.
bill:
The distinctive long beak of the pelican.
Slang Meanings of pelican
Meaning: To 'pelican' as a verb means to catch a large amount.
Example Sentence: He managed to pelican a whole school of fish while fishing.
Meaning: Used humorously to describe someone who is very mouthy or gossipy.
Example Sentence: Stop being such a pelican and mind your own business!