gallows bird

noun

, Informal.

1. a person who deserves to be hanged.

gallows bird

noun

1. informal.
   a person considered deserving of hanging

Word History and Origins

Origin of gallows bird¹

First recorded in 1775–85

Example Sentences

Then the boy ran back and picked up the kid, and took it to the Black Gallows Bird.

From Project Gutenberg

This gallows-bird was the one great writer of his age and country, and initiated modern literature for France.

From Project Gutenberg

We are now after the assassin, who you may see has got off at this place, for here is my ladder which the gallows-bird has used.

From Project Gutenberg

Why, thou gallows-bird—thou jail-rat—thou friend of the hangman and his customers!

From Project Gutenberg

Such a gallows-bird, with so many bad habits, would be arrested anywhere, and then what good should I get of my income?

From Project Gutenberg