Definition of the word eagle

The word "eagle" originates from Old English "ægel", which was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*aizliz", and ultimately from the Proto-Indo-European root "*aiw-", meaning "to flash" or "to shine". This root is also the source of the Latin word "aetos", meaning "eagle". The word "eagle" was first used in English to refer to the bird of prey in the 10th century. Initially, it referred specifically to the golden eagle, but over time it came to be used for other large, powerful birds of prey, such as the bald eagle, which is now the national bird of the United States. In heraldry and iconography, the eagle is often used as a symbol of power, strength, and freedom, and its image has been used on many national flags and coats of arms throughout history.