I. ˈau̇l, esp before pause or consonant ˈau̇əl noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English owle, from Old English ūle; akin to Middle Dutch ule owl, Old High German uwila, Old Norse ugla
1. : any of numerous widely distributed birds of prey (order Strigiformes) distinguished by their large head and large more or less forwardly directed eyes, short hooked bill, strong talons with reversible outer toe, very soft fluffy usually mottled plumage, and more or less nocturnal habits, as well as by many anatomical characters
2. : a pigeon of a long-established breed from which the turbits and satinettes are supposed to be derived having a frill on the front of the neck and the bill very short with the upper mandible downwardly curved
3. : a person suggestive of an owl in solemnity of appearance or manner, nocturnal mode of life, or other respect
the owls who … tell us that a dismal period of world history is no time for high musical spirits — Wilder Hobson
II. intransitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
chiefly dialect : to hoot or stare like an owl
owl … with hoots that echo eerily down the valley — American Guide Series: Arkansas
III. adjective
: operating or open around or after midnight or all night
the rattle of one of the owl streetcars — Hamilton Basso