murre
UK[mɜː]US[mɝː]
n
any of several species of auk, especially the common guillemot or the thick-billed murre.
Etymology
the word 'murre' first appeared in english in the late 17th century, its origin shrouded in uncertainty. it is likely an onomatopoeic formation, perhaps imitating the bird's call, or possibly borrowed from a Scandinavian source. the term was adopted by naturalists to specifically refer to certain auk species found in northern seas. its journey into english exemplifies how simple, sound-based or borrowed words become standardized names in scientific and common vocabulary.
Analysis
this word is a simplex loanword. it is of unknown, possibly imitative origin, and functions as a single, unanalyzable unit in modern english.
Examples
we watched a murre dive gracefully into the icy arctic waters.
the thick-billed murre is known for its striking black and white plumage.
a colony of murres nested precariously on the narrow cliff ledge.