heron
UK: ˈhɛrən | US: ˈhɛrən
n. a long-legged freshwater or coastal bird of the family Ardeidae, characterized by a long neck, sharp bill, and graceful flight.
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The word "heron" traces back to Old French hairon (12th century), derived from Proto-Germanic *hraigrō, likely imitative of the bird’s cry. It shares roots with Old High German heigaro and Old English hrāgra, reflecting a common Germanic name for the bird. The spelling stabilized in Middle English as heron, retaining its monosyllabic core without clear morpheme boundaries. As a non-compound word, its etymology highlights sound symbolism and naturalistic naming rather than compositional structure.
A grey heron stood motionless at the riverbank, waiting to catch fish.
Herons are often seen wading in shallow wetlands.
The heron spread its broad wings and flew gracefully overhead.
We spotted a pair of herons nesting in the tall trees near the lake.
In folklore, the heron symbolizes patience and solitude.