heron

noun

her·​on ˈher-ən 

ˈhe-rən

plural herons also heron

: any of various long-necked and long-legged wading birds (family Ardeidae) with a long tapering bill, large wings, and soft plumage

Examples of heron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Her delicate yet vivid watercolors of marine life—tarpon, parrotfish, turtles, pelicans, herons—capture the essence of the Keys. —Charlene Fang, AFAR Media, 14 Jan. 2025

In late July and August, many migratory birds, including egrets, herons, and spoonbills, also stop on the beaches. —David Escribano, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2024

Birders will find native species (like herons and plovers) and visitors, depending on the season. —Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 11 Jan. 2025

From horses to herons, gnomes to doors that look designed just for them, these are the scavenger hunts worth traveling the South to see. —Su-Jit Lin, Southern Living, 31 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English heiroun, hayroun, from Anglo-French heiron, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German heigaro heron

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing heron

• black-crowned night heron
• blue heron
• great blue heron
• great white heron
• green heron
• night heron

Kids Definition

heron

noun

her·​on ˈher-ən 

plural herons also heron

: any of various wading birds with a long neck, long legs, a long thin bill and large wings