hawk
/ˈhɔk/ noun B2- A diurnal predatory bird of the family Accipitridae, smaller than an eagle. · It is illegal to hunt hawks or other raptors in many parts of the world.
- Any diurnal predatory terrestrial bird of similar size and appearance to the accipitrid hawks, such as a falcon.
- Any of various species of dragonfly of the genera Apocordulia and Austrocordulia, endemic to Australia.
- An advocate of aggressive political positions and actions.
- An uncooperative or purely selfish participant in an exchange or game, especially when untrusting, acquisitive or treacherous. Refers specifically to the prisoner's dilemma, a.k.a. the Hawk-Dove game.
- Cold, sharp or biting wind.
Plural hawks
From the library
## The Hawk and the Nightingale
A NIGHTINGALE, sitting aloft upon an oak and singing according to his wont, was seen by a Hawk who, being in need of food, swooped down and seized him.
The Nightingale, about to lose his life, earnestly begged the Hawk to let him go, saying that he was not big enough to satisfy the hunger of a Hawk who, if he wanted food, ought to pursue the larger birds.
The Hawk, interrupting him, said: “I should indeed have lost my senses if I should let go food ready in my hand, for the sake of pursuing birds which are not yet even within sight.”
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