What is "thistle finch"

Goldfinch \Gold"finch`\, n. [AS. goldfinc. See Gold, and Finch.] (Zo["o]l.)

1. A beautiful bright-colored European finch ( Carduelis elegans). The name refers to the large patch of yellow on the wings. The front of the head and throat are bright red; the nape, with part of the wings and tail, black; -- called also goldspink, goldie, fool's coat, drawbird, draw-water, thistle finch, and sweet William.

2. The yellow-hammer.

3. A small American finch ( Spinus tristis); the thistle bird.

   Note: The name is also applied to other yellow finches, esp. to several additional American species of Spinus.