sparrow-hawk

A sparrow-hawk perches on a bare branch, scanning the ground below.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small hawk: "sparrow-hawk" refers to any of several small hawks, especially of the genus Accipiter, known for preying on small birds and mammals. It is often used to describe the Eurasian sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • A sparrow-hawk darted through the garden, chasing a flock of finches. (A small hawk swiftly pursued small birds.)
  • The birdwatcher spotted a sparrow-hawk perched on a fence post. (The observer identified a small hawk resting on a fence.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be a sparrow-hawk": metaphorically, to describe someone as aggressive or predatory in a subtle or swift manner.
  • In negotiations, he was a sparrow-hawk, striking quickly before anyone could react. (He was assertive and opportunistic in discussions.)

Variants and Related Words

• Sparrowhawk (n): a common alternative spelling of "sparrow-hawk," referring to the same bird.
  • The sparrowhawk is a skilled hunter in woodland areas. (The small hawk is adept at hunting in forests.)

Synonyms

• Accipiter: the scientific genus name for sparrow-hawks and similar birds of prey.
• Small hawk: a general term for a hawk of modest size, often used interchangeably with "sparrow-hawk."

Related Idioms

• "to watch like a sparrow-hawk": to observe someone or something very closely and intently.
  • The teacher watched the students like a sparrow-hawk during the exam. (The teacher monitored the students with extreme vigilance.)

Phrasal Verbs

• Sparrow-hawk down: (rare, informal) to swoop down suddenly and seize something.
  • The cat sparrow-hawked down on the mouse from the shelf. (The cat pounced swiftly on the mouse.)