auk

[ɔːk]

auk Definition

a black and white seabird that is similar to a penguin, but can fly.

Using auk: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "auk" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The auk is a common sight along the coast during breeding season.

• Example

  The Great Auk was a flightless bird that went extinct in the mid-19th century.

• Example

  The auk's wings are small and adapted for swimming rather than flying.

Phrases with auk

• razorbill auk

  a type of auk with a distinctive white line on its beak

  Example

  The razorbill auk is a common sight off the coast of Maine.

• little auk

  the smallest species of auk, found in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions

  Example

  The little auk is also known as the dovekie.

• great auk

  a large, flightless bird that went extinct in the mid-19th century

  Example

  The great auk was hunted to extinction for its feathers and meat.

Origins of auk

from Old Norse 'álka'

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Summary: auk in Brief

An 'auk' [ɔːk] is a black and white seabird that is similar to a penguin, but can fly. It is commonly seen along the coast during breeding season, and has small wings adapted for swimming. The 'great auk' is a larger, flightless bird that went extinct in the mid-19th century due to hunting. Other types of auk include the 'razorbill auk' and the 'little auk,' which is the smallest species of auk found in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions.