View synonyms for gull

gull

[ guhl ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

any of numerous long-winged, web-toed, aquatic birds of the family Laridae, having usually white plumage with a gray back and wings.

gull

[ guhl ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

verb (used with object)

to deceive, trick, or cheat.
Synonyms: hoodwink, bamboozle, fool, dupe, cozen

noun

a person who is easily deceived or cheated; dupe.

gull

/ ɡʌl /

noun

any aquatic bird of the genus Larus and related genera, such as L. canus ( common gull or mew ) having long pointed wings, short legs, and a mostly white plumage: family Laridae, order Charadriiformes larine

gull

/ ɡʌl /

noun

a person who is easily fooled or cheated

verb

tr to fool, cheat, or hoax

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Derived Forms

ˈgull-ˌlike, adjective

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Other Words From

gull-like adjective

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Word History and Origins

Origin of gull¹

1400–50; late Middle English gulle, perhaps < Welsh gŵylan, Cornish guilan (compare French goéland < Breton gwelan )

Origin of gull²

First recorded in 1540–50; perhaps akin to obsolete gull to swallow, guzzle

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Word History and Origins

Origin of gull¹

C15: of Celtic origin; compare Welsh gwylan

Origin of gull²

C16: perhaps from dialect gull unfledged bird, probably from gul, from Old Norse gulr yellow

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Example Sentences

From pilfering chips to swallowing whole starfish, gulls are known for their voracious appetites.

From BBC

Although so many years have passed, I still see him in my mind, feeding seagulls at Zuma Beach, as I watch the gulls over the gray-green English Channel.

From Los Angeles Times

Massive winter waves exploded against rocks, sea lions barked and squawking gulls joined the symphony.

From Los Angeles Times

The most commonly struck birds were waterfowl, raptors and gulls.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead of being adored, gulls tend to be more of a punchline.

From Salon

Related Words

gulgul Gullah

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