saker

A saker falcon perches on a falconer's gloved hand.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of falcon: "saker" refers to a large falcon (Falco cherrug) found in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is known for its strength and is sometimes used in falconry.
   • A type of cannon (historical): "saker" also denotes a medium-sized cannon used from the 16th to the 18th centuries, typically firing a shot weighing about 5 to 6 pounds.

Usage Examples

• Falcon:

  • The saker is prized by falconers for its hunting ability. (This large falcon is valued by people who train birds of prey.)
  • A saker soared above the steppes, searching for prey. (The falcon flew high over the grassy plains.)

• Cannon:

  • The army deployed sakers to breach the castle walls. (They used medium-sized cannons in battle.)
  • A saker could fire a shot over a mile. (This historical cannon had a long range.)

Advanced Usage

• "to fly a saker": to use a saker falcon in falconry.

  • The falconer trained for months to fly a saker. (He prepared to hunt with this specific bird.)

• "saker shot": the ammunition or projectile used by a saker cannon.

  • The soldiers loaded saker shot into the cannon. (They placed the appropriate ball into the weapon.)

Variants and Related Words

• Sakeret (n): a young saker falcon.

  • The sakeret was just learning to hunt. (The young falcon was still developing its skills.)

• Saker-hawk (n): an alternative name for the saker falcon.

  • The saker-hawk is a powerful predator. (Another term for the same bird.)

Synonyms

• Falcon: a broad term for birds of prey in the genus .
• Cannon: a large artillery piece (for the historical meaning).

Phrasal Verbs

• There are no common phrasal verbs directly associated with "saker" as a standalone word.

Related Idioms

• There are no common idioms using "saker" directly. However, in falconry contexts, phrases like "saker in hand" might refer to having the bird under control.