2026

Popinjay

//ˈpɑpənˌd͡ʒeɪ//

Definitions

1
A parrot.
[I]nnumerable popingayes of ſundry kindes are found chattering in the groues of thoſe fenny places.
2
A decorative image of a parrot on a tapestry, cloth etc.
3
A vain, gaudy person; someone who is shallow or superficial.
The very quintessence of popinjay vulgarity is reached when nicely is made to do service for well, in this wise: "How do you do?" "Nicely." "How are you?" "Nicely."
Similar
fop macaroni peacock

Word Origin

From Middle English popinjay, popyngeay, popingay, popejay, from Anglo-Norman papegai, papejoie et al., (northern) Old French papejai (“parrot”), probably from Old Occitan papagay (compare Occitan pap...

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