First Known Use: 1834
Dictionary
saw–whet owl
noun \ˈsȯ-ˌhwet-, -ˌwet-\
Definition of SAW-WHET OWL
: a very small harsh-voiced North American owl (Aegolius acadicus) that is largely dark brown above and chestnut streaked with white beneath —called also saw-whet
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Origin of SAW-WHET OWL
from the supposed resemblance of its cry to the sound made in filing a saw
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