nighthawk

plural nighthawks

1. UKregionalA nightjar, especially Caprimulgus europaeus (Eurasian nightjar).First known use 17th c.
2. USA New World nightjar of the genus Chordeiles, especially Chordeiles minor.First known use 18th c.

   The swallows circled around and I watched them and the night-hawks flying above the roofs and drank the Cinzano.

   1929, Ernest Hemingway, A Farewell to Arms, Folio Society, published 2008, page 91

   Synonyms: bullbat, nightjar

3. A person whose preference or custom is to remain awake and active during the night and the early morning hours.First known use 19th c.

   Synonyms: night owl, night person

4. A nighthawker (metal detectorist who works illegally at night).
5. JapanhistoricalAn unlicensed prostitute who worked the roadsides at night.