partridge, noun
- Origin:
- EnglishShow more Transferred use of general English partridge a name for various species of game bird, especially birds of the genus Perdix.
a. Any of several species of game bird of the genus Francolinus of the Phasianidae.
- Note:
- See note at pheasant.
1994 M. Roberts tr. of J.A. Wahlberg’s Trav. Jrnls 1838–56 22Shot various small birds and one partridge.
b. With distinguishing epithet:
bush-partridge, (a) the swempi, Francolinus coqui; (b) the Natal francolin (see Natal sense c), F. natalensis;
1899 R.B. & J.D.S. Woodward Natal Birds 162 (Pettman)The bush partridge measures 13 inches in length.
1958 L.G. Green S. Afr. Beachcomber 23Such expert shots did they become that they picked off redwing partridges on the wing with their rifles.
Any of several species of game bird of the genus Francolinus of the Phasianidae.
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