What is sparrowhawk? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of sparrowhawk

sparrowhawknoun
Sparrowhawk
/ˈspærəʊhɔːk//ˈspærəʊhɔːk/

Where does the word sparrowhawk come from?

The word "sparrowhawk" is a compound word, combining "sparrow" and "hawk." It originates from Old English "spærhafoc," which literally translates to "sparrow hawk." This name likely arose because the sparrowhawk was commonly seen hunting smaller birds, including sparrows. However, their diet includes a wider range of prey, including mice and other small mammals. The term has remained relatively unchanged throughout history, reflecting the bird's traditional association with smaller prey.

Example of vocabulary sparrowhawknamespace

The sparrowhawk soared through the air, scanning the trees below for its next prey.
The sparrowhawk's piercing call echoed through the forest, warning other birds to flee.
The sparrowhawk landed on a nearby branch, its sharp talons gripping the wood tightly.
The sparrowhawk's slender body and camouflaged feathers made it the perfect predator in the forest.
The sparrowhawk's speed and agility allowed it to capture small birds with ease.