hawk

hawk · noun/verb

imported

Definitions

noun/verb

  1. 1.

    A bird of prey with broad rounded wings and a long tail, known for its keen eyesight and swift flight.

  2. 2.

    To hunt with a trained hawk.

  3. 3.

    A person who advocates an aggressive policy, especially in foreign affairs (opposite of dove).

  4. 4.

    To sell goods aggressively, especially by calling out in public.

  5. 5.

    To clear the throat noisily; to cough up phlegm.

Forms

plural: hawks

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    watch like a hawk — to observe very closely and carefully
  • •
    hawk-eyed — having very keen eyesight; observant
  • •
    hawks and doves — those favoring aggressive vs. peaceful policies

Related words

Antonyms: dove
See also: dove, eagle, falcon, predator
Synonyms: bird of prey, falcon, peddle, sell

Etymology

The noun comes from Old English hafoc, of Germanic origin; related to German Habicht. The verb meaning "to sell" comes from hawker, probably from Low German höken.