: either of two gallinules with showy, often purplish plumage:
a
: one (Porphyrula martinica synonym Porphyrio martinica synonym Porphyrio martinicus) found from the southern U.S. to Argentina that is purplish blue with olive-green upperparts, a red and yellow bill, and a light blue frontal shield
If you think parrots are pretty, wait until you see a wild purple gallinule with its exquisite blend of colors.—Gary Clark, The Houston Chronicle, 21 May 2004
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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