white feather

noun

, Chiefly British.

1. a symbol of cowardice.

white feather

noun

1. a symbol or mark of cowardice
2. show the white feather
   show the white feather to act in a cowardly manner

Word History and Origins

Origin of white feather¹

First recorded in 1775–85; originally from a white feather in a gamecock's tail, taken as a sign of inferior breeding and hence of poor fighting qualities

Word History and Origins

Origin of white feather¹

from the belief that a white feather in a gamecock's tail was a sign of a poor fighter

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. show the white feather, to behave in a cowardly manner.

More idioms and phrases containing white feather

see show the white feather .

Example Sentences

Around her throat was a white feather boa, while her features were half concealed by the veil she wore.

From Project Gutenberg

Three more civilians, wearing the white-feather symbol on their overcoats, advanced toward Winfree.

From Project Gutenberg

He took the little white feather from his hatbrim and attached it to Winfree's tattered, blood-stained tunic.

From Project Gutenberg

And, if you don't mind, I'll lend you a white feather hat and boa.

From Project Gutenberg

Instantly beside them on the forest floor they saw three soft white feather beds.

From Project Gutenberg