(Frequently with distinguishing word) any of several tanagers of the genus Piranga with predominantly red plumage; especially the scarlet tanager (P. olivacea) or the summer tanager (P. rubra).
Origin
Late 18th century; earliest use found in John Latham (1740–1837), naturalist.
Definition of red tanager in US English:
red tanager
noun
(Frequently with distinguishing word) any of several tanagers of the genus Piranga with predominantly red plumage; especially the scarlet tanager (P. olivacea) or the summer tanager (P. rubra).
Origin
Late 18th century; earliest use found in John Latham (1740–1837), naturalist.