coot

Everyday

1. A coot is a black water bird with a white beak and a white patch on its forehead. tree →
2. (informal) An «old coot» is a funny or slightly rude name for a strange or grumpy old man. tree →

In the lessons

In nature lessons, coots live on ponds and lakes in the UK, Europe and Australia and squabble noisily. «As bald as a coot» (UK) means completely bald, because of its white forehead patch.

Examples

• A coot dived under the water for weeds. tree →
• The coots were fighting on the pond. tree →
• Grandad says he's as bald as a coot. tree →
• The coot has a white patch above its beak. tree →
• That old coot shouts at everyone who walks past. tree →
• Coots build floating nests. tree →

Note

Countable. «Old coot» is mild teasing, a bit rude.