from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Goldfinch \Gold"finch`\, n. [AS. goldfinc. See {Gold}, and
{Finch}.] (Zool.)
(a) A beautiful bright-colored European finch ({Carduelis
elegans}). The name refers to the large patch of yellow
on the wings. The front of the head and throat are bright
red; the nape, with part of the wings and tail, black; --
called also {goldspink}, {goldie}, {fool's coat},
{drawbird}, {draw-water}, {thistle finch}, and {sweet
William}.
(b) The yellow-hammer.
(c) A small American finch ({Spinus tristis}); the thistle
bird.
[1913 Webster]
Note: The name is also applied to other yellow finches, esp.
to several additional American species of {Spinus}.
[1913 Webster]