n. [ F. martinet. See Martin the bird, and cf. Martinet a disciplinarian. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

1. (Zool.) The European house martin. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. [ Cf. F. merlette. ] (Her.) A bird without beak or feet; -- generally assumed to represent a martin. As a mark of cadency it denotes the fourth son. [ 1913 Webster ]