falcon
UK: ˈfɔːlkən | US: ˈfælkən
n. a bird of prey with long pointed wings and a notched beak, trained for hunting
n. (historical) a small cannon used in medieval warfare
The word "falcon" originates from Late Latin falco, derived from Latin falx (meaning "hook"), referencing the bird's curved talons or beak. The suffix -on is a common noun ending in Old French (faucon), which passed into Middle English. The hook-like shape of the falcon's claws or beak likely inspired its name, emphasizing its predatory nature. Over time, the term also extended metaphorically to weapons (e.g., cannons) due to their projectile force.
The falcon soared effortlessly above the cliffs.
Medieval armies occasionally used falcons in siege warfare.
She trained the falcon to return to her glove on command.
The peregrine falcon is the fastest bird in the world.
His fascination with falconry began after seeing a falcon hunt in the wild.