TIERCEL Meaning and
Definition
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A tiercel is a noun that refers to a male hawk or falcon of a smaller size or in its third year. The term is primarily used in the context of falconry, a sport in which trained birds of prey are used for hunting. In this domain, a tiercel specifically denotes a bird that is smaller in size than its female counterpart, known as the falcon or haggard.
With its etymological origins rooted in Old French and Middle English, the word "tiercel" is derived from the Latin word "tertiarius," indicating "third." This alludes to the fact that tiercels are generally smaller and lighter than female hawks or falcons. Since this bird is in its third year of life, it is considered to be maturing and developing its hunting skills. Tiercels are typically used in falconry for hunting smaller game, such as partridges, quails, or pigeons.
The tiercel possesses distinctive attributes that differentiate it from other birds of prey. Its plumage tends to be sleek and finely patterned, and it boasts a sharp, high-pitched call. When trained, tiercels exhibit remarkable agility and speed during flight, making them valuable companions for falconers. Given their smaller size, tiercels are often favored when mobility and maneuverability are essential in hunting situations.
In summary, a tiercel is a male hawk or falcon in its third year that is smaller in size compared to the female counterpart. It plays a significant role in falconry due to its agility, speed, and aptitude for capturing smaller game.
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A small goshawk-so called from being the male, and small, or as being, according to an old fancy, the product of a third egg.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TIERCEL
- riercel
- giercel
- yiercel
- 6iercel
- 5iercel
- tuercel
- tjercel
- tkercel
- toercel
- t9ercel
- t8ercel
- tiwrcel
- tisrcel
- tidrcel
- tirrcel
- ti4rcel
- ti3rcel
- tieecel
- tiedcel
Etymology of TIERCEL
The word "tiercel" is derived from the Old French word "tiercele", which itself comes from the Vulgar Latin word "tertiolus". "Tertiolus" is a diminutive form of the Latin word "tertius", meaning "third".
In falconry, "tiercel" refers to a male falcon, specifically the third and smallest in size among the various categories of falcons. The term originates from the notion that the tiercel falcon is about one-third smaller than the female falcon, known as "merlin", and about two-thirds smaller than the largest female falcon, known as the "peregrine falcon". The name "tiercel" is used to distinguish this smaller male falcon from the larger female counterparts.
Similar spelling words for TIERCEL
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