Coney, noun, is a term commonly used to refer to a small mammal belonging to the family Ochotonidae, also known as the pika. Pikas are small rodents that resemble rabbits, characterized by their relatively round body shape, short limbs, and small ears. They are typically found in mountainous regions across Asia, North America, and parts of Europe.
The term "coney" is derived from the Middle English word "conī," which itself originated from the Old French word "conis." In certain dialects, "coney" may also be spelled as "conee" or "cony."
Historically, the word "coney" has been used interchangeably with "rabbit" in some regions, particularly in biblical contexts, where the animal is mentioned several times. However, in current usage, "coney" primarily refers to the pika and is less commonly used for rabbits.
Furthermore, "coney" can also be associated with its usage in the phrase "coneyskin," which refers to a soft, smooth, and lightweight fabric with a raised or napped surface resembling rabbit fur. Coneyskin fabrics were often used for garments, linings, and decorative purposes in the past.
Overall, "coney" is a term that encompasses a small mammal of the pika family or may refer to certain fabrics with a similar texture to rabbit fur.
