water cock

noun

: a large gallinule (Gallicrex cinerea) of southeastern Asia and the East Indies of which in the breeding season the male is black and has a fleshy red caruncle on the top of its head

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