noun
wigeon
WIJ-uhn
Wigeon (noun) means a wigeon is any of three species of freshwater dabbling duck. Example: “A flock of wigeons landed on the lake at dusk.”
noun
1
A wigeon is any of three species of freshwater dabbling duck.
"A flock of wigeons landed on the lake at dusk."
"Birdwatchers counted several wigeons on the reservoir."
"The Eurasian wigeon is one of the three wigeon species."
How to use wigeon
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA wigeon is a type of duck that dabbles for food in fresh water.
When to use it
The word is a neutral, everyday term used in birdwatching and nature writing.
Memory tip
You may see this bird's name spelled either wigeon or widgeon; both are correct.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
widgeon
Common pairings
a flock of wigeons
the Eurasian wigeon
spot a wigeon
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A flock of _____ landed on the lake at dusk.
Etymology
The word entered English in the early sixteenth century, probably from a Middle French word for the same duck. That French word traces back further to an Old French term connected with whining or shouting.
Rhymes for wigeon
See all rhymes for wigeon →Frequently asked questions
What is a wigeon?
A wigeon is a freshwater dabbling duck, one of three closely related species found around the world.
Where does the word wigeon come from?
It probably comes from a Middle French word for the duck, which itself derives from an older Old French term linked to whining or shouting.
How many kinds of wigeon are there?
There are three species commonly called wigeon, including the Eurasian wigeon and the American wigeon.
What is the meaning of wigeon?
"wigeon" (noun) means a wigeon is any of three species of freshwater dabbling duck.
