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Definition of greenshank

greenshank

/ˈɡriːn.ʃæŋk/
green · shank
Plural:greenshanks
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greenshank Lexical Profile

greenshank Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A large Eurasian wading bird (Tringa nebularia) of the sandpiper family, distinguished by its long, slightly upturned bill, heavily speckled grayish plumage, and distinctive greenish legs.

Example

"During our winter birdwatching trip to the estuary, we spotted a solitary greenshank foraging in the shallow water."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for greenshank

• Nearby Words

greenlet
greenling
greensboro
greenshank
grenada
grenade
grenadier

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 17th century from the words 'green' and 'shank' (meaning leg), directly referring to the characteristic greenish-colored legs of the bird.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Greenshank. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/greenshank
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