D defs.my
Entry 3 senses Webster, 1913

Dove

/(dŭv)/ · IPA /dʌv/
01 n. A pigeon of the genus Columba and various related genera. The species are numerous.
  1. 1.
    A pigeon of the genus Columba and various related genera. The species are numerous.(Zool.)
  2. 2.
    A word of endearment for one regarded as pure and gentle.
    “O my dove, . . . let me hear thy voice.” — Cant. ii. 14.
  3. 3.
    a person advocating peace, compromise or conciliation rather than war or conflict. Opposite of hawk.
Phrases & compounds
Dove tick — a mite (Argas reflexus) which infests doves and other birds.
Soiled dove — a prostitute.