any of numerous birds of prey of the family Accipitridae, having a short, hooked beak, broad wings, and curved talons, often seen circling or swooping at low altitudes.
any of several similar, unrelated birds, as the nighthawk.
a person who preys on others, as a sharper.
Also calleda person, esp. one in public office, who advocates war or a belligerent national attitude. Cf. dove (def. 5).
any person who pursues an aggressive policy in business, government, etc.: The corporation is now run by a bunch of young hawks.