[kou-burd] 
| any of several New World blackbirds of the genus Molothrus, esp. M. ater, of North America, that accompany herds of cattle. |
| cow·bird (kou'bûrd') n. Any of various blackbirds of the genus Molothrus, especially the common North American species M. ater, that lay their eggs in the nests of other birds and are often seen accompanying herds of grazing cattle. [From their habit of staying with cattle.] |
