ˈcarrier-ˈpigeon
[see prec. 4.]
A breed of pigeons in which the instinct for finding the way home is very strongly developed, used for bearing communications or letters. Also fig.
| 1647 R. Stapylton Juvenal 66 Letters brought by carryer-pidgeons. 1650 ― Strada's Low-C. Warres vii. 79 The antient invention of Carrier-Pidgeons. 1840 Bp. E. Stanley Birds v, Carrier Pigeons. These are a particular breed, which can be so trained, that when carried to great distances from the place of their usual abode, and turned out, they will find their way back. 1871 Tegetmeier (title) Homing, or Carrier Pigeon. a 1856 Longfellow Childr. Lord's Supper 157 Prayer..the carrier-pigeon of heaven. |