horaltic

Etymology is uncertain.[1] In 2007 it was speculated that the derivation was a mishearing of "heraldic".[2]

horaltic (comparative more horaltic, superlative most horaltic)

1. (rare) Used to describe birds, particularly vultures, in a characteristic pose with wings spread and raised.
   • 2008, Marta Magellan, Those Voracious Vultures, page 47:

     Vultures are often seen standing in what is called a horaltic pose.

   • 2012, Lawrence Winkler, Westwood Lake Chronicles:

     At dawn you can find them all with their wings spread out in the 'horaltic pose' (after the Egyptian god of the morning sun, Horus).

• acrolith