merrythought

American  

[mer-ee-thawt] / ˈmɛr iˌθɔt /

noun

Chiefly British.

1. the wishbone or furcula of a fowl.

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merrythought British  

/ ˈmɛrɪˌθɔːt /

noun

1. a less common word for wishbone

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Etymology

Origin of merrythought

First recorded in 1600–10; so called from the custom of pulling the bone apart until it breaks, the person holding the longer (sometimes shorter) piece supposedly marrying first or being granted a wish at the time

Example Sentences

Cut off the merrythought in the line f, g, by passing the knife under it towards the neck.

From The Cook and Housekeeper's Complete and Universal Dictionary; Including a System of Modern Cookery, in all Its Various Branches, Adapted to the Use of Private Families by Eaton, Mary, fl. 1823-1849

I see I am wrong again, the drumstick is in the dish, and the merrythought is in my head, with numerous companions.

From Adrift in a Boat by Kingston, William Henry Giles

"A merrythought, if you please, and no bread-sauce," said the young lady, in her calm, imperious manner.

From M. or N. "Similia similibus curantur." by Whyte-Melville, G.J.

The breast, wings, and merrythought, are the most esteemed; but the leg has a higher flavour.——Partridge.

From The Cook and Housekeeper's Complete and Universal Dictionary; Including a System of Modern Cookery, in all Its Various Branches, Adapted to the Use of Private Families by Eaton, Mary, fl. 1823-1849

Cut up the chicken, the wings and breast in slices, the merrythought also, and divide the legs.

From The Lady's Own Cookery Book, and New Dinner-Table Directory; In Which will Be Found a Large Collection of Original Receipts. 3rd ed. by Bury, Charlotte Campbell, Lady