pigeon

1 of 2

noun (1)

pi·​geon ˈpi-jən 

1

: any of a widely distributed family (Columbidae, order Columbiformes) of birds with a stout body, rather short legs, and smooth and compact plumage

especially : a member of any of numerous varieties of the rock dove that exist in domestication and in the feral state in cities and towns throughout most of the world

2

: a young woman

3

: an easy mark : dupe

4

: clay pigeon

pigeon

2 of 2

noun (2)

: an object of special concern : accepted business or interest

tennis was not his pigeon

Synonyms

Noun (1)

• chump
• dupe
• gull
• mug [chiefly British]
• patsy
• pushover
• sap
• soft touch
• sucker
• tool

Examples of pigeon in a Sentence

Noun (1)

a confidence man in search of another pigeon

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Grateful for his rescuers, the pigeon decided to stay. —Allison Moses, USA TODAY, 20 Mar. 2025

Trafalgar Square in London has also implemented a ban on feeding pigeons to prevent them from flocking and causing a nuisance, helping to preserve the area’s iconic landmarks and keeping the space cleaner for visitors. —Rebecca Ann Hughes, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025

What are some common pigeon pose mistakes to keep an eye on? —Danielle Zickl, SELF, 6 Mar. 2025

The officer shakes a bed sheet at the pigeon over the second-floor balcony banister. —Daniella Segura, Sacramento Bee, 28 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Middle English, from Anglo-French pygoun, pijun, from Late Latin pipion-, pipio young bird, from Latin pipire to chirp

Noun (2)

alteration of pidgin

First Known Use

Noun (1)

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun (2)

1826, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing pigeon

• carrier pigeon
• clay pigeon
• homing pigeon
• passenger pigeon
• pigeon breast
• pigeon hawk
• pigeon-livered
• pigeon pea
• pigeon-toed
• rock pigeon
• stool pigeon
• wood pigeon

Rhymes for pigeon

• irreligion
• religion

Kids Definition

pigeon

noun

pi·​geon

ˈpij-ən

1

: any of numerous birds with a stout body, usually short legs, and smooth feathers

especially : any of many varieties of the rock dove that are domesticated or have escaped from domestication and live in cities and towns throughout most of the world

2

: someone who is easily fooled or cheated