Gannet
/ˈɡænɪt/noun
A large seabird with a pointed bill and white plumage, known for diving steeply into the sea for fish.
Did you know?The word ultimately traces back through Old English and Old French to a Germanic root meaning a ‘reed’ or ‘staff,’ likely because the bird’s long neck and shape suggested a slender stalk.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
*ganþaz
“a reed or staff”
Old English
OE
ganot
“a sea bird, probably a gannet or related seabird”
Old French
OF
gannet
“a gannet”
Middle English
ME
gannet
“a gannet or similar seabird”
Modern English
English
gannet
“a large diving seabird”