noun
harrier
HA-ree-uh
Harrier (noun) means a harrier is a bird of prey in the genus Circus that flies low over meadows and marshes hunting small mammals or birds. Example: “A harrier glided silently over the marsh.”
noun
1
A harrier is a bird of prey in the genus Circus that flies low over meadows and marshes hunting small mammals or birds.
"A harrier glided silently over the marsh."
"Harriers nest on the ground in open moorland."
"Several harrier species hunt over open meadows."
2
A harrier is a runner who competes in cross country races.
"The harriers trained on the hills every weekend."
"She joined the school's harrier club last term."
"Harriers race across open country rather than on a track."
3
A harrier is a breed of hound used to hunt hares.
"The harrier followed the hare's scent across the field."
"A pack of harriers was bred for hunting hares."
"Harriers were traditionally kept for hunting hares."
How to use harrier
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA harrier can be a low-flying bird of prey, a cross country runner, or a hare-hunting hound.
When to use it
Harrier covers three quite different things, so the intended meaning depends entirely on context.
Memory tip
Listen for context clues, since a harrier could be a bird, a runner or a dog.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
hairier
Common pairings
marsh harrier
harrier club
pack of harriers
cross country harrier
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A _____ glided silently over the marsh.
Etymology
The word was formed within English by adding the agent suffix -er to harry, meaning one that harries or pursues.
Synonyms
View more →
harehound
Rhymes for harrier
See all rhymes for harrier →Frequently asked questions
What is a harrier bird?
A harrier is a bird of prey in the genus Circus that flies low over meadows and marshes while hunting.
What is a harrier in running?
A harrier is a cross country runner, especially one belonging to a running club.
What is a harrier dog used for?
A harrier is a breed of hound traditionally used to hunt hares.
What is the meaning of harrier?
"harrier" (noun) means a harrier is a bird of prey in the genus Circus that flies low over meadows and marshes hunting small mammals or birds.
