pi|geon

pi|geon¹ «PIHJ uhn», noun, plural -geons or (collectively) -geon.

1. any one of a group of birds with a plump body, short tail, and short legs. The rock pigeon, the passenger pigeon (now extinct), and the white-crowned pigeon are three kinds. Pigeons are found throughout the world. There are numerous species, making up a family of birds. The smaller kinds are usually called doves.

2. Slang. a person who is, or lets himself be, easily tricked, especially in gambling: »

This living and moving Moggs is a pigeon for the plucking if ever there was one (Punch). He was a famous pigeon for the play-men; they lived upon him (Thackeray).

SYNONYM(S): simpleton, dupe, gull.

╂[Middle English pejoun < Old French pijon young dove < Vulgar Latin pībiō, alteration of Late Latin pīpiō, -ōnis squab, a young piping bird. Compare Latin pīpiāre, or pīpīre to cheep.]

pi|geon² «PIHJ uhn», noun.

1. = pidgin. (Cf. ↑pidgin)

2. British Slang. business, concern, or affair: »

I don't suppose airport acoustics are really your pigeon (Punch).

╂[alteration (influenced by the pronunciation) of pidgin]

Usage See pidgin for usage note. (Cf. ↑pidgin)