crowbait

[ kroh-beyt ]

/ ˈkroʊˌbeɪt /

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noun Chiefly Northern, North Midland, and Western U.S.

an emaciated, worn-out horse or cow.

QUIZ

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Question 1 of 7

Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.

Origin of crowbait

An Americanism dating back to 1855–60; crow¹ + bait

In that case, if that white crowbait you're riding hadn't already come three miles, we'd find out whether she can run.
The Heritage of the Hills|Arthur P. Hankins
Well, how in the name of all that is good, great, and wise did you get that crowbait wished on you?
Old Man Curry|Charles E. (Charles Emmett) Van Loan
Right there is where my lode of information turns to an old spavined crowbait , and folds its wings, for I've pumped it dry.
Heart of the West|O. Henry
Right there is where my lode of information turns to an old spavined crowbait, and folds its wings, for I've pumped it dry.
Heart of the West|O. Henry

Maybe the old crowbait will go better in the mud, and I'll ride him until his eyes stick out a foot.
Old Man Curry|Charles E. (Charles Emmett) Van Loan