GALLOWS BIRD Meaning and
Definition
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The term "gallows bird" refers to an individual who is regarded as a criminal or an outcast, often with a history of nefarious activities. It is typically used as a derogatory slang term with negative connotations. The origins of this phrase can be traced back to medieval times when public executions by hanging were a common form of punishment for serious crimes.
In a literal sense, a "gallows bird" would be someone who faced execution by hanging. However, the term has transcended its original meaning to imply a person with a sordid past or a habitual troublemaker. It is often employed to describe individuals who have a propensity for engaging in criminal behavior or who are seen as morally corrupt.
The label "gallows bird" often carries a sense of social stigma and is used to portray someone as an undesirable or unwelcome presence within society. It suggests a lack of trustworthiness and a disregard for societal norms. The term can be utilized to caution others about associating with the individual, serving as a warning that the person may be a source of trouble or danger.
Overall, "gallows bird" remains a figurative expression that denotes an individual with a history of criminal behavior or a notorious reputation, emphasizing their negative and disreputable qualities.
Common Misspellings for GALLOWS BIRD
- fallows bird
- vallows bird
- ballows bird
- hallows bird
- yallows bird
- tallows bird
- gzllows bird
- gsllows bird
- gwllows bird
- gqllows bird
- gaklows bird
- gaplows bird
- gaolows bird
- galkows bird
- galpows bird
- galoows bird
- galliws bird
- gallkws bird
- galllws bird
Etymology of GALLOWS BIRD
The term "gallows bird" dates back to the 17th century and is a combination of two words: "gallows" and "bird".
1. "Gallows": The word "gallows" refers to a framework with a horizontal beam, typically used for execution by hanging. The Old English word for gallows was "galga", which derived from Proto-Germanic "*galgon". It has cognates in various Germanic languages, such as Old Norse "gálgi" and Old High German "galgo".
2. "Bird": The word "bird" refers to a warm-blooded vertebrate animal of the class Aves. The English word "bird" can be traced back to the Old English word "brid" or "bridd", and it has cognates in other Germanic languages, including Old Norse "fugl" and Old High German "fogal".
Similar spelling word for GALLOWS BIRD
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