01 n. Any large webfooted bird of the genus Pelecanus, of which about a dozen species are known. They have an enormous bill, to the lower edge o…
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1.
Any large webfooted bird of the genus Pelecanus, of which about a dozen species are known. They have an enormous bill, to the lower edge of which is attached a pouch in which captured fishes are temporarily stored.(Zool.)
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2.
A retort or still having a curved tube or tubes leading back from the head to the body for continuous condensation and redistillation.(Old Chem.)
Phrases & compounds
Frigate pelican —
the frigate bird. See under Frigate.
Pelican fish —
deep-sea fish (Eurypharynx pelecanoides) of the order Lyomeri, remarkable for the enormous development of the jaws, which support a large gular pouch.
Pelican flower —
the very large and curiously shaped blossom of a climbing plant (Aristolochia grandiflora) of the West Indies; also, the plant itself.
Pelican ibis —
a large Asiatic wood ibis (Tantalus leucocephalus). The head and throat are destitute of feathers; the plumage is white, with the quills and the tail greenish black.
Pelican in her piety —
a representation of a pelican in the act of wounding her breast in order to nourish her young with her blood; -- a practice fabulously attributed to the bird, on account of which it was adopted as a symbol of the Redeemer, and of charity.
Pelican's foot —
a marine gastropod shell of the genus Aporrhais, esp. Aporrhais pes-pelicani of Europe.