waterfowl

noun

wa·​ter·​fowl ˈwȯ-tər-ˌfau̇(-ə)l 

ˈwä-

plural waterfowl also waterfowls

: a bird that frequents water

especially : a swimming game bird (such as a duck or goose) as distinguished from an upland game bird or shorebird

Examples of waterfowl in a Sentence

The lake is a refuge for migrating waterfowl.

Recent Examples on the Web

Biosecurity New Zealand believes laying hens foraging outside the shed were exposed to a low pathogenic virus from wild waterfowl, which can mutate on interaction with chickens. —Matthew Brockett, Fortune Asia, 2 Dec. 2024

For avid hunters, Sheep Creek is ideal for waterfowl hunting, ducks, turkey, deer, and geese, plus ponds stocked with mature rainbow trout. —Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 28 Oct. 2024

Insider tips: The grounds feature picturesque walking trails and citrus groves as well as a 1,300-foot, 5-acre lake that utilizes reclaimed water and is home to fish and various species of waterfowl, including cranes and geese. —Georgann Yara, The Arizona Republic, 19 Feb. 2024

The refuge’s dunes and salt marshes are a birder’s paradise with species like bald eagles, terns, songbirds, and various waterfowl migrating in and out throughout the year. —Madeline Weinfield, Southern Living, 20 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

waterfowl

noun

wa·​ter·​fowl ˈwȯt-ər-ˌfau̇l 

ˈwät-

plural waterfowl also waterfowls

: a bird that is found in or near water

especially : a swimming bird (as a duck or goose) often hunted as game