ptarmigan
English edit
Etymology edit
From Scottish Gaelic tarmachan, of unknown origin. The pt- comes from a mistaken belief in a Greek origin, as if related to ptero- (“wing”).
Pronunciation edit
- (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /ˈtɑːmɪɡən/
Audio (Southern England) (file)
Noun edit
ptarmigan (plural ptarmigan or ptarmigans)
- Any of three species of small grouse in the genus Lagopus found in subarctic tundra areas of North America and Eurasia.
Synonyms edit
Derived terms edit
- rock ptarmigan, Lagopus muta
- white-tailed ptarmigan, Lagopus leucura
- willow ptarmigan, Lagopus lagopus
Translations edit
a small grouse, Lagopus
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