Winchester goose

noun

1
obsolete : a venereal disease causing a swelling in the groin
2
obsolete : a person infected with a venereal disease
specifically : prostitute

Word History

Etymology

from Winchester, England; from the fact that in the 16th century the brothels of Southwark were under the jurisdiction of the bishop of Winchester

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near Winchester goose

Cite this Entry

“Winchester goose.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Winchester%20goose. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!