DICT.TW Dictionary Taiwan

 Tur·tle·dove n.
 1. Zool. Any one of numerous species of pigeons belonging to Turtur and allied genera, native of various parts of the Old World; especially, the common European species (Turtur vulgaris), which is noted for its plaintive note, affectionate disposition, and devotion to its mate.
 Note: ☞ The South African turtledove (Turtur albiventris), and the ashy turtledove of India (Turtur rubicolus), are similar to the European species in their habits.
 2. Zool. Any one of several species of pigeons more or less resembling the true turtledoves, as the American mourning dove (see under Dove), and the Australian turtledove (Stictopelia cuneata).
 Note: ☞ The turtledove of the Scriptures is probably Turtur risorius, a species which is still plentiful in Egypt and other Eastern countries. It is closely allied to the European turtledove.
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 Dove n.
 1. Zool. A pigeon of the genus Columba and various related genera. The species are numerous.
 Note: ☞ The domestic dove, including the varieties called fantails, tumblers, carrier pigeons, etc., was derived from the rock pigeon (Columba livia) of Europe and Asia; the turtledove of Europe, celebrated for its sweet, plaintive note, is Columba turtur or Turtur vulgaris; the ringdove, the largest of European species, is Columba palumbus; the Carolina dove, or Mourning dove, is Zenaidura macroura; the sea dove is the little auk (Mergulus alle or Alle alle). See Turtledove, Ground dove, and Rock pigeon. The dove is a symbol of peace, innocence, gentleness, and affection; also, in art and in the Scriptures, the typical symbol of the Holy Ghost.
 2. A word of endearment for one regarded as pure and gentle.
    O my dove, . . . let me hear thy voice.   --Cant. ii. 14.
 Dove tick Zool., a mite (Argas reflexus) which infests doves and other birds.
 Soiled dove, a prostitute. [Slang]
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