| 1. | any of numerous small American owls of the genus Otus, having hornlike tufts of feathers, as O. asio, of eastern North America. |
| 2. | (not in technical use) any owl having a harsh cry, esp. the barn owl. |
| screech owl n. Any of various small owls of the genus Otus, especially O. asio, of North America, having ear tufts and a quavering whistlelike call. |