crow

CROW, noun [G., Latin ] 1. A large black fowl, of the genus Corvus; the beak is convex and cultrated, the nostrils are covered with bristly feathers, the tongue is forked and cartilaginous. This is a voracious fowl, feeding on carrion and grain, particularly maiz, which it pulls up, just after it appears above ground. To pluck or pull a crow is to be industrious or contentious about a trifle, or thing of no value. 2. A bar of iron with a beak, crook or two claws, used in raising and moving heavy weights. 3. The voice of the cock. [See the Verb.] CROW, verb intransitive preterit tense and participle passive crowed; formerly, preterit tense crew. [Gr. See the Noun.] 1. To cry or make a noise as a cock, in joy, gaiety or defiance. 2. To boast in triumph; to vaunt; to vapor; to swagger. [A popular, but not an elegant use of the word.]