screech-owl
Definition
- Noun:
- A small owl: "screech-owl" refers to any of various small owls of the genus Megascops (formerly Otus), characterized by their small size, ear tufts, and a distinctive, shrill, screeching call. They are commonly found in the Americas.
- A bird of ill omen: In folklore and superstition, a "screech-owl" is often regarded as a harbinger of bad luck or death, due to its eerie call and nocturnal habits.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- We heard a screech-owl calling from the woods last night. (A small owl of the genus Megascops making its characteristic sound.)
- In many old tales, the screech-owl is considered a symbol of misfortune. (A bird associated with bad omens in folklore.)
Advanced Usage
- "to screech like a screech-owl": to make a loud, harsh, piercing sound, similar to the bird's call.
- The old gate screeched like a screech-owl when I opened it. (The gate produced a loud, unpleasant noise.)
Variants and Related Words
Screech (n/v): a loud, harsh, piercing cry or sound; to make such a sound.
- The car's brakes let out a terrible screech. (A harsh, high-pitched noise.)
Owl (n): a nocturnal bird of prey with large eyes and a typically hooting call, but not specifically a screech-owl.
- An owl hooted from the barn roof. (A general bird of prey.)
Synonyms
- Barn owl: a different species of owl (Tyto alba) known for its screeching call, sometimes confused with the screech-owl.
- Little owl: another small owl species, but not a direct synonym.
Related Idioms
"Screech-owl luck": an old-fashioned phrase meaning very bad luck or misfortune, derived from the bird's ominous reputation.
- Ever since I broke the mirror, it's been nothing but screech-owl luck. (A series of unfortunate events.)
"As wise as a screech-owl": an ironic or humorous expression, since screech-owls are not traditionally associated with wisdom (unlike the great horned owl or barn owl).
- He thinks he's as wise as a screech-owl, but he can't even find his keys. (He is not actually wise; used sarcastically.)