 He described the distinguishing characteristics as a straight bill hooked at the tip, linear nostrils, a bare face, and fully webbed feet.This early definition included frigatebirds, cormorants, and sulids, as well as pelicans.The name comes from the Ancient Greek word "pelekan" (πελεκάν), which is itself derived from the word "pelekys" (πέλεκυς) meaning "axe".