1. 1. The horny, projecting structure forming the mandibles of a bird, especially one that is strong, sharp, and useful in striking and tearing; a bill.
   2. A similar structure in other animals, such as turtles, insects, or fish.
2. A usually firm, tapering tip on certain plant structures, such as some seeds and fruits.
3. A beaklike structure or part, as:
   1. The spout of a pitcher.
   2. A metal or metal-clad ram projecting from the bow of an ancient warship.
4. Informal. The human nose.
5. Chiefly British Slang.
   1. A schoolmaster.
   2. A judge.

[Middle English bek, from Old French bec, from Latin beccus, of Celtic origin.]

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.