Forster's tern

noun

: a black-capped tern (Sterna forsteri) that is related to the common tern, breeds chiefly in marshes and on the interior lakes of North America, and migrates southward in winter

Word History

Etymology

after Johann R. Forster

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near Forster's tern

Cite this Entry

“Forster's tern.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Forster%27s%20tern. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!