How Do You Spell TIERCELET?

Pronunciation: [tˈi͡əsɛlət] (IPA)

Tiercelet is a word that refers to a male hawk or falcon that is in its third year, just before reaching maturity. The word is pronounced as "teer-suh-luht," with the stress on the first syllable. The spelling of tiercelet can be confusing, as the "ce" is pronounced as a "s" sound instead of "ce" as in "centimeter." However, this is because the word comes from the old French word "tiercel," which was pronounced similarly, and the spelling has been preserved over time.

TIERCELET Meaning and Definition

1. Tiercelet, a noun, refers to a small hawk or falcon, specifically a male hawk or falcon that is in its third year of life. With a root in the French word tierce, meaning "third," the term "tiercelet" signifies the third and final stage of maturation for these birds.

   Characteristically, tiercelets possess a sleek and compact build, with sharp claws and a powerful beak. They are known for their exceptional speed and agility when hunting, primarily preying on smaller birds, such as sparrows, finches, or pigeons. These birds of prey often exhibit a keen set of eyesight, capable of spotting their potential targets from great distances.

   Tiercelets undergo a unique development from their initial downy stage as chicks to their adult plumage. As they enter their third year, the tiercelet's appearance may become more robust, gaining the distinctive features that distinguish them from younger birds. Their flight patterns become more refined and precise, showcasing their hunting prowess.

   Due to their impressive skill set, tiercelets have frequently been used in falconry, a sport where trained raptors are used in hunting. The smaller size of tiercelets makes them suitable for hunting small game while also being more easily trainable and manageable.

   In summary, tiercelet refers to a male hawk or falcon that has reached the third year of its life. These birds possess remarkable speed, agility, and visual acuity and are often utilized in falconry for their hunting capabilities.

Common Misspellings for TIERCELET

• tiewrcelet

Etymology of TIERCELET

The word "tiercelet" has its origins in the Old French language. It is derived from the word "tierce" which means "third" in French, referring to the third- or smallest-sized falcon in a series of three. The suffix "-let" is a diminutive ending, indicating something small or young. Therefore, "tiercelet" ultimately means a small or young falcon, specifically the male of various species, such as the peregrine falcon or merlin.