pilot biscuit

American  

noun

1. hardtack.

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pilot biscuit British  

noun

1. another term for hardtack

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Etymology

Origin of pilot biscuit

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

Thereupon Fenn gave over watching the turtles, and, a little later, seated cozily in the tent, the chums partook of a supper of canned baked beans, with hard-tack or pilot biscuit, and coffee.

From Bart Keene's Hunting Days or, The Darewell Chums in a Winter Camp by Chapman, Allen

They squatted on the bank and opened their beans, but beans and pilot biscuit made dry eating, and soon the canteens were empty.

From Don Strong, Patrol Leader by Heyliger, William

Cheered by the very thought of something to be done, Lucile munched her half of the pilot biscuit and bit of reindeer meat contentedly.

From The Blue Envelope by Snell, Roy J. (Roy Judson)

Not a fish, not a hunk of venison, not a pilot biscuit was on their sled.

From Triple Spies by Snell, Roy J. (Roy Judson)

"Well, I call this a fine breakfast," exclaimed Mr. Damon, munching his bacon and eggs, and dipping into his coffee the hard pilot biscuit, which they had instead of bread.

From Tom Swift and His Wireless Message: or, the castaways of Earthquake island by Appleton, Victor [pseud.]