Gos"hawk` (?), n. [AS. g&?;shafuc, lit., goosehawk; or Icel. gāshaukr. See Goose, and Hawk the bird.] (Zoöl.) Any large hawk of the genus Astur, of which many species and varieties are known. The European (Astur palumbarius) and the American (A. atricapillus) are the best known species. They are noted for their powerful flight, activity, and courage. The Australian goshawk (A. Novæ-Hollandiæ) is pure white.

• A large bird of prey, Accipiter gentilis, that is widespread throughout the temperate parts of the northern hemisphere, living mainly in coniferous forests.