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 Project Gutenberg

Near him, on the ground where he was lying, were some oranges, and a few pieces of very dry crackers, called “pilot biscuits” by the sailors.

From Project Gutenberg

“Meantime we mustn’t forget pilot biscuit and peanut butter for a pocket lunch and shelled peanuts, of course, and rice, and tea and coffee, and sugar, and baking powder.”

From Project Gutenberg

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 Project Gutenberg

There Bunny, his father and Bunker Blue had some hot clam chowder, with big crackers called "pilot biscuit," to eat with it.

From Project Gutenberg