Dabchick

/ˈdæbˌtʃɪk/ noun

Definition

A small freshwater diving bird, also called a little grebe, found in Europe and Asia, known for its ability to dive underwater to catch fish.

Etymology

From 'dab' (possibly from Low German 'dabben,' to dive) plus 'chick' (a young bird), literally meaning 'the diving bird' or 'the little diver.'

Kelly Says

The dabchick is so small and skilled at diving that it earned the nickname 'devil-diver' in some regions—it can disappear underwater so quickly and completely that it seemed magical to people watching it centuries ago.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.