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

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

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 26 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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