coonskin

[ koon-skin ]

noun

1. the pelt of a raccoon.
2. an article of clothing made of coonskin, especially a cap with a tail.

adjective

1. made of coonskin:

   a coonskin cap.

coonskin

/ ˈkuːnˌskɪn /

noun

1. the pelt of a raccoon
2. a raccoon cap with the tail hanging at the back
3. an overcoat made of raccoon

Word History and Origins

Origin of coonskin¹

An Americanism dating back to 1615–25; coon + skin

Example Sentences

Coonskin drew a long breath, and said loud enough to be heard a mile away, "Damfino."

From Project Gutenberg

So Coonskin waded in and, tying the reins around the broken traces, led the horse on to dry land at a safe distance.

From Project Gutenberg

After assisting Coonskin to stable the donks and secure the dogs, I perused a newspaper while my young neophyte went out to smoke.

From Project Gutenberg

Coonskin was somewhat embarrassed, but I praised his pluck in glowing terms, and put him at ease.

From Project Gutenberg

But Coonskin and I, and even our interpreter, ate sparingly (I use the word "ate," because there was so much meat in it).

From Project Gutenberg