/kooht/ , n.
1. any aquatic bird of the genus Fulica, as F. americana, of North America, and F. atra, of the Old World, characterized by lobate toes and short wings and tail.
2. any of various other swimming or diving birds, esp. the scoters.
3. Informal. a foolish or crotchety person, esp. one who is old.
[ 1250-1300; ME cote; c. D koet ]