Noun: rhea ree-u
- Larger of two tall fast-running flightless birds similar to ostriches but three-toed; found from Brazil to Patagonia
"The rhea's powerful legs allow it to reach speeds of up to 35 mph";
- Rhea americana
- Smaller of two tall fast-running flightless birds similar to ostriches but three-toed; found from Peru to Strait of Magellan
"The nandu, also called the rhea, can reach speeds of up to 35 mph";
- nandu, Pterocnemia pennata
- Fertility goddess in ancient Greek mythology; wife of Cronus and mother of Zeus; identified with Roman Ops and Cybele of ancient Asia Minor
Derived forms: rheas
Type of: flightless bird, ratite, ratite bird, Titaness
Part of: genus Pterocnemia, genus Rhea, Pterocnemia
Encyclopedia: Rhea, John