Any one of numerous species of large gallinaceous birds of the genus
Phasianus, and many other genera of the family
Phasianidæ, found chiefly in Asia. [
1913 Webster]
" The common pheasant, or English pheasant (Phasianus Colchicus) is now found over most of temperate Europe, but was introduced from Asia. The ring-necked pheasant (Phasianus torquatus) and the green pheasant (Phasianus versicolor) have been introduced into Oregon. The golden pheasant (Thaumalea picta) is one of the most beautiful species. The silver pheasant (Euplocamus nychthemerus) of China, and several related species from Southern Asia, are very beautiful."
[1913 Webster]