gallows bird

noun

Synonyms of gallows birdnext
: a person who deserves hanging

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1785, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gallows bird was circa 1785

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Cite this Entry

“Gallows bird.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gallows%20bird. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.

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