\Gold"finch`\, n. [AS. goldfinc. See {Gold}, and
{Finch}.] (Zo["o]l.)
(a) A beautiful bright-colored European finch ({Carduelis
    elegans}). The name refers to the large patch of yellow
    on the wings. The front of the head and throat are bright
    red; the nape, with part of the wings and tail, black; --
    called also {goldspink}, {goldie}, {fool's coat},
    {drawbird}, {draw-water}, {thistle finch}, and {sweet
    William}.
(b) The yellow-hammer.
(c) A small American finch ({Spinus tristis}); the thistle
    bird.
Note: The name is also applied to other yellow finches, esp.
      to several additional American species of {Spinus}.