nighthawk Definition
- 1a nocturnal bird of the subfamily Chordeilinae, related to the nightjar, typically having a dark plumage and a distinctive call
- 2a person who is habitually up or moving about late at night
Using nighthawk: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "nighthawk" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The nighthawk's call echoed through the night.
Example
He was a nighthawk, always staying up late and sleeping in.
Example
The nighthawk swooped down to catch its prey.
nighthawk Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with nighthawk
a widespread North American bird of the nightjar family, with a short bill and distinctive white wing patches
Example
The common nighthawk is known for its aerial acrobatics and distinctive call.
a small, grayish-brown bird of the nightjar family, found in the southwestern United States and Central and South America
Example
The lesser nighthawk is known for its silent flight and cryptic coloration.
Example
The restaurant offers nighthawk service for customers who want to order food after hours.
Summary: nighthawk in Brief
The term 'nighthawk' [nahyt-hawk] refers to a nocturnal bird related to the nightjar, known for its dark plumage and distinctive call. It also denotes a person who is habitually up or moving about late at night, as in 'He was a nighthawk, always staying up late and sleeping in.' Phrases like 'common nighthawk' and 'lesser nighthawk' refer to specific species of the bird, while 'nighthawk service' denotes a late-night delivery service.
