fowl

word

Definition

A bird kept on a farm for its eggs or meat, such as chickens, ducks, or geese. Sometimes also used for wild birds that are hunted for food.

Usage & Nuances

'Fowl' is somewhat formal and mainly found in older, rural, or scientific contexts. It's used broadly for birds like chickens, ducks, and turkeys. In casual English, 'chicken', 'duck', or just 'bird' are more common. 'Fowl' can also mean wild birds hunted for food (e.g., 'game fowl').

Example Sentences

Chickens and ducks are types of fowl.

basic

The farmer raises many fowl for eggs and meat.

basic

A goose is a large fowl.

basic

Wild fowl are sometimes hunted in the fall.

natural

There’s a market nearby that sells fresh fowl every morning.

natural

Some people prefer the taste of wild fowl over farm-raised ones.

natural