ALBATROSS

noun (plural -tross or -trosses) Etymology: probably alteration of obsolete alcatrace frigate bird, from Spanish or Portuguese alcatraz pelican, from Arabic al-ghaṭṭās, a kind of sea eagle Date: 1672 any of a family (Diomedeidae) of large web-footed seabirds that have long slender wings, are excellent gliders, and include the largest seabirds, 2. something that causes persistent deep concern or anxiety, something that greatly hinders accomplishment ; encumbrance