egret

noun

: any of various herons that bear long plumes during the breeding season

Illustration of egret

Illustration of egret

Examples of egret in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The harassment must stop, however, once the egrets have settled into nests for the season and lay eggs. Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 Jan. 2025 To see even more wild locals, cruise the Dora Canal, a verdant passage bordered by cypress trees and home to otters, herons, wood ducks, egrets, and more. Susan Hall Mahon, Southern Living, 17 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 The tiny island is home to brown and white pelicans, roseate spoonbills, owls, ospreys, terns, herons, egrets, and other shore birds. Kara Franker, Southern Living, 4 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for egret 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Old Occitan *aigreta, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German heigaro heron

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of egret was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near egret

Cite this Entry

“Egret.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/egret. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

egret

noun
: any of various herons that bear long feathers during the breeding season

More from Merriam-Webster on egret

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