pigeon Meaning, Definition & Usage

Pi"geon noun

Etymology

F., fr. L. pipio a young pipping or chirping bird, fr. pipire to peep, chirp. Cf. Peep to chirp.

Definitions

1. (Zoöl.) Any bird of the order Columbæ, of which numerous species occur in nearly all parts of the world. ✍ The common domestic pigeon, or dove, was derived from the Old World rock pigeon (Columba livia). It has given rise to numerous very remarkable varieties, such as the carrier, fantail, nun, pouter, tumbler, etc. The common wild pigeons of the Eastern United States are the passenger pigeon, and the Carolina dove. See under Passenger, and Dove. See, also, Fruit pigeon, Ground pigeon, Queen pigeon, Stock pigeon, under Fruit, Ground, etc.
2. An unsuspected victim of sharpers; a gull. Slang

Pi"geon transitive verb

Definitions

1. To pluck; to fleece; to swindle by tricks in gambling. Slang Smart.

   He's pigeoned and undone. Observer.