Dutch wife

noun

: a long round bolster or an open frame of rattan or cane used in beds in tropical countries as a rest for the limbs and an aid in keeping cool

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Dutch wife was in 1838

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Dictionary Entries Near Dutch wife

Cite this Entry

“Dutch wife.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Dutch%20wife. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

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