Lectionary Calendar
Sunday, June 29th, 2025
the Week of Proper 8 / Ordinary 13
the Week of Proper 8 / Ordinary 13
video advertismenet
advertisement
advertisement
advertisement
Attention!
Tired of seeing ads while studying? Now you can enjoy an "Ads Free" version of the site for as little as 10¢ a day and support a great cause!
Click here to learn more!
Click here to learn more!
Bible Encyclopedias
Poltroon
1911 Encyclopedia Britannica
Search for…
or Resource Toolbox
Additional Links
a coward, a worthless rogue without courage or spirit. The word comes through Fr. poltron from Ital. poltrone, an idle fellow, one who lolls in a bed or couch (Milanese polter, Venetian poltrona, adapted from Ger. Polster, a pillow; cf. English "bolster"). The old guess that it was from Lat. pollice truncus, maimed in the thumb, and was first applied to those who avoided military service by self-mutilation, gave rise probably to the French application of poltron to a falcon whose talons were cut to prevent its attacking game.
Copyright Statement
These files are public domain.
These files are public domain.
Bibliography Information
Chisholm, Hugh, General Editor. Entry for 'Poltroon'. 1911 Encyclopedia Britanica. https://www.studylight.org/encyclopedias/eng/bri/p/poltroon.html. 1910.
Chisholm, Hugh, General Editor. Entry for 'Poltroon'. 1911 Encyclopedia Britanica. https://www.studylight.org/encyclopedias/eng/bri/p/poltroon.html. 1910.
