Loon \Loon\, n. [For older loom, Icel. l?mr; akin to Dan. & Sw. lom.] (Zo["o]l.) Any one of several aquatic, wed-footed, northern birds of the genus {Urinator} (formerly {Colymbus}), noted for their expertness in diving and swimming under water. The common loon, or great northern diver ({Urinator imber}, or {Colymbus torquatus}), and the red-throated loon or diver ({U. septentrionalis}), are the best known species. See {Diver}.