*goldfinch*

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 ]

☞ The name is also applied to other yellow finches, esp. to several additional American species of Spinus. [ 1913 Webster ]