1. A small plover (a type of wading bird) found in northern regions, known for its distinctive markings and migratory behavior.
Usage: ornithology; also spelled dottrel
2. A person who is easily deceived or fooled; a dupe.
Usage: archaic; informal

Examples

• The dotterel is a small Arctic bird that migrates thousands of miles each year.
• Birdwatchers traveled to the tundra hoping to spot a dotterel during breeding season.
• The dotterel's cryptic plumage helps it blend into rocky terrain.
• In Shakespeare's time, a dotterel was someone easily tricked or made a fool of.
• The dotterel nests on high mountain plateaus and Arctic regions.