1. A short-winged diving seabird found in northern oceans, with a stocky body and black and white plumage.
Usage: Common in the North Atlantic and North Pacific; Related species include the puffin and razorbill

Examples

• The auk dove beneath the waves to catch small fish.
• Auks nest in large colonies on rocky cliffs and islands.
• We spotted several auks during our whale-watching tour off the coast of Maine.
• The great auk, now extinct, was once hunted extensively for its feathers and oil.
• Auks are excellent swimmers despite their small wings.