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ortolan
[< Cdn F < F; ult. < L hortolanus gardener]
Rare
DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.
n.
an Arctic sparrow, Plectrophenax nivalis.
See: snow bunting
Quotations
1760
Lastly, you meet here, as well as in other parts of the island, with great plenty of game, particularly ortolans, and white rabbets of a most delicate taste.
1760
This little creature has a very charming outside, and for its relish well deserves the name of Ortolan.
1956
Snow Bunting [also known as] ortolan (This name, originally denoting a European species of bunting, a gastronomically famous bird, has been applied to a number of other species used for food. The present species was formerly sent to market in large numbers. Nfld.). . . .