grebe Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun small compact-bodied almost completely aquatic bird that builds floating nests; similar to loons but smaller and with lobate rather than webbed feet

F. gr?be, fr. Armor. krib comb; akin to kriben crest, W. crib comb, crest. So called in allusion to the crest of one species.

(Zoöl.) One of several swimming birds or divers, of the genus Colymbus (formerly Podiceps), aud allied genera, found in the northern parts of America, Europe, and Asia. They have strong, sharp bills, and lobate toes.