auk
- Auk refers to any of several species of seabirds belonging to the family Alcidae, characterized by their black and white plumage, short wings, and diving ability. They are native to the cooler waters of the Northern Hemisphere. nounThe auk is well adapted to life in the water, using its wings to swim underwater.During the breeding season, the auk returns to coastal cliffs to nest.
- The term 'auk' can also specifically refer to the great auk, a now-extinct species that was once found in the North Atlantic. It was a large, flightless bird that became extinct in the mid-19th century due to overhunting. nounThe great auk was hunted to extinction for its feathers and meat.Archaeologists discovered remains of the great auk on several islands in the North Atlantic.