Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Jacana \Jac"a*na`\, n. [Cf. Sp. jacania.] (Zo["o]l.)
   Any of several wading birds belonging to the genus {Jacana}
   and several allied genera, all of which have spurs on the
   wings. They are able to run about over floating water weeds
   by means of their very long, spreading toes. Called also
   {surgeon bird}.

   Note: The most common South American species is {Jacana
         spinosa}. The East Indian or pheasant jacana
         ({Hydrophasianus chirurgus}) is remarkable for having
         four very long, curved, middle tail feathers.