Alca

noun

Al·​ca
ˈal-kə
: the type genus of Alcidae usually including solely the razor-billed auk

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Swedish alka auk, from Norwegian alk, alka

First Known Use

circa 1721, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Alca was circa 1721

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

Dictionary Entries Near Alca

Cite this Entry

“Alca.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Alca. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!