Definition

Noun 1. A nocturnal bird: A general term for any bird that is active and vocal at night. 2. A type of heron: Specifically refers to certain herons that are nocturnal or active during twilight (crepuscular).

Usage Examples

• General sense:
• Specific sense (heron):

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in a literary or poetic context to evoke a sense of mystery, darkness, or foreboding associated with nighttime sounds.
• In precise ornithological contexts, it is more accurate to use the specific species name (e.g., Black-crowned Night Heron) rather than the general term "night raven."

Variants and Related Words

• Nightjar (n): A family of nocturnal birds with a distinctive churring call, often confused with the general concept of a "night raven."
• Night heron (n): The more common and specific term for the nocturnal herons to which "night raven" can refer.

Synonyms

• Nocturnal bird
• Night bird
• Night heron (for the specific meaning)

Notes on Meaning

• It is important to distinguish between the two main meanings:
  • The broad, general meaning refers to any bird heard calling at night (e.g., an owl, a nightjar).
  • The specific, zoological meaning refers to birds of the heron family (Ardeidae) that are active at night or twilight.

Noun

1. any bird that cries at night
2. nocturnal or crepuscular herons