loon

UK: luːn | US: luːn

Definition

  1. n. a large diving waterbird with a sleek body and haunting call, found in northern lakes.

  2. n. (informal) a foolish or crazy person.

Structure

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Etymology

The word "loon" originates from Old Norse lómr, referring to the bird's mournful cry. The informal sense of "foolish person" emerged in the 19th century, likely influenced by the bird's awkward movements on land, which contrast with its grace in water. This dual meaning reflects a blend of natural observation and colloquial humor.

Examples

  1. A loon's eerie call echoed across the lake at dusk.

  2. Don’t be such a loon—that idea makes no sense!

  3. We spotted a pair of loons diving for fish.

  4. His coworkers teased him for acting like a loon.

  5. The loon is a symbol of wilderness in many cultures.