any one of numerous species of pigeons belonging to turtur and allied genera, native of various parts of the old world; especially, the common european species (turtur vulgaris), which is noted for its plaintive note, affectionate disposition, and devotion to its mate.-any one of several species of pigeons more or less resembling the true turtledoves, as the american mourning dove (see under dove), and the australian turtledove (stictopelia cuneata).