California quail

noun

: a quail (Callipepla californica synonym Lophortyx californica) that has a large forwardly curving black crest, the back brownish gray, the throat black bordered by white, the breast bluish, and the belly and flanks marked with black, white, and chestnut, and that inhabits humid and arid regions from Baja California to southern Oregon

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now