The Collaborative International Dictionary
mandarin duck \mandarin duck\ n. A showy crested Asiatic duck ( Aix galericulata, formerly Dendronessa galericulata), often domesticated, and regarded by the Chinese as an emblem of conjugal affection.
Wiktionary
n. a perching duck that has a red bill, large white crescent above the eye and reddish face, ''Aix galericulata''.
WordNet
n. showy crested Asiatic duck; often domesticated [syn: Aix galericulata]
Wikipedia
The mandarin duck (Aix galericulata) is a perching duck species found in East Asia and is native to Japan. It is medium-sized, at long with a wingspan. It is closely related to the North American wood duck, the only other member of the genus Aix. Aix is an Ancient Greek word used by Aristotle to refer to an unknown diving bird, and galericulata is the Latin for a wig, derived from galerum, a cap or bonnet.
Usage examples of "mandarin duck".
Feeling pleased with his efforts, he treated himself to the best Mandarin duck, delicately fried shrimp with none of the Cantonese thick crust of batter, and crisp Mandarin vegetables.
He was going to their nurseries with a mind full of the matrimonial troubles of a Mandarin duck.