cactus woodpecker

noun

: a small desert woodpecker (Dryobates scalaris cactophilus) of the southwestern U.S. with the back barred black and white

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1868, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cactus woodpecker was circa 1868

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near cactus woodpecker

Cite this Entry

“Cactus woodpecker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cactus%20woodpecker. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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