any of a genus (Vanellus) of black-and-white plovers; esp., an Old World crested species (V. vanellus) with broad, rounded wings, noted for spectacular aerial displays
See lapwing in American Heritage Dictionary 4
(lăpˈwĭngˌ)
noun
Any of several Old World birds of the genus Vanellus related to the plovers, especially V. vanellus, having a narrow crest and erratic flight behavior. Also called green plover, pewit.