\Tur"tle*dove`\, n. [See 1ts {Turtle}.]
1. (Zo["o]l.) Any one of numerous species of pigeons
   belonging to {Turtur} and allied genera, native of various
   parts of the Old World; especially, the common European
   species ({Turtur vulgaris}), which is noted for its
   plaintive note, affectionate disposition, and devotion to
   its mate.
Note: The South African turtledove ({T. albiventris}), and
      the ashy turtledove of India ({T. rubicolus}), are
      similar to the European species in their habits.
2. (Zo["o]l.) Any one of several species of pigeons more or
   less resembling the true turtledoves, as the American
   mourning dove (see under {Dove}), and the Australian
   turtledove ({Stictopelia cuneata}).
Note: The turtledove of the Scriptures is probably Turtur
      risorius, a species which is still plentiful in Egypt
      and other Eastern countries. It is closely allied to
      the European turtledove.