hawk
UK: hɔːk | US: hɔːk
n. a bird of prey with broad rounded wings and a long tail
n. a person who advocates aggressive or warlike policies (opposite of "dove")
vt. to sell goods informally in public places
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The word "hawk" traces back to Old English hafoc, from Proto-Germanic habukaz, referring to the bird of prey. Its aggressive hunting nature likely inspired the metaphorical use for warlike politicians in the 20th century. The verb sense ("to peddle goods") emerged in the 16th century, possibly imitating the bird's persistent, circling behavior.
A hawk circled overhead, searching for prey.
The senator was a known hawk, pushing for military intervention.
Street vendors hawk souvenirs to tourists near the monument.
The red-tailed hawk is common across North America.
He hawked his handmade jewelry at the weekend market.