wishbone

English

noun
Definitions
  • A forked bone between the neck and breast of a bird consisting chiefly of the two clavicles fused at their median or lower end, regarded as a lucky charm in some countries.
  • (nautical) A spar in two parts, between which a sail is hoisted, the wishbone extending its clew.
  • (nautical) Any sailing vessel rigged with a wishbone.
  • (American football) A particular kind of offensive formation. See .

Etymology

Compound from English wish + English bone.

Origin

English

bone

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms