¹pigeon

noun pi·geon \ˈpi-jən\

Definition of PIGEON

: any of a widely distributed family (Columbidae, order Columbiformes) of birds with a stout body, rather short legs, and smooth and compact plumage; especially : a member of any of numerous varieties of the rock dove that exist in domestication and in the feral state in cities and towns throughout most of the world

: a young woman

: an easy mark : dupe

: clay pigeon

Origin of PIGEON

Middle English, from Anglo-French pygoun, pijun, from Late Latin pipion-, pipio young bird, from Latin pipire to chirp

First Known Use: 14th century

Other Birds Terms

aerie, bunting, clutch, covey, hackle, ratite, rictus, ruff, skein, zygodactyl

Rhymes with PIGEON

Phrygian, pidgin, smidgen, wigeon

²pigeon

noun

Definition of PIGEON

: an object of special concern : accepted business or interest <tennis was not his pigeon>

Origin of PIGEON

alteration of pidgin

First Known Use: 1826

PIGEONS Defined for Kids

pigeon

noun pi·geon \ˈpi-jən\

Definition of PIGEON for Kids

: a bird with a plump body, short legs, and smooth feathers and especially one that is a variety of the rock dove and is found in cities throughout the world