01 n. A fabulous winged monster, ravenous and filthy, having the face of a woman and the body of a vulture, with long claws, and the face pale wi…
pl.
Harpies ((-pĭz))
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1.
A fabulous winged monster, ravenous and filthy, having the face of a woman and the body of a vulture, with long claws, and the face pale with hunger. Some writers mention two, others three.(Gr. Myth.)“Both table and provisions vanished quite. With sound of harpies' wings and talons heard.” — Milton.
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2.
One who is rapacious or ravenous; an extortioner.“The harpies about all pocket the pool.” — Goldsmith.
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3.
The European moor buzzard or marsh harrier (Circus aeruginosus).(Zool.)
Phrases & compounds
Harpy bat —
An East Indian fruit bat of the genus Harpyia (esp. Harpyia cephalotes), having prominent, tubular nostrils.
Harpy fly —
the house fly.