Crossword Genius

Game bird that makes us shrink back with fear (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

quail

This clue is a triple definition!

'game' is the first definition.
(I know that quail is a type of phasianid)

'bird' is the second definition.
(quail is a kind of bird)

'that makes us' is a link.

'shrink back with fear' is the third definition.
(quail can mean to show fear)

(Other definitions for quail that I've seen before include "Cower before the game-bird?" , "recoil with fear" , "Flinch from small gamebird?" , "Game bird - cower" , "Show fear - of small game bird?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.