pollywog

noun

pol·​ly·​wog ˈpä-lē-ˌwäg How to pronounce pollywog (audio)
-ˌwȯg
variants or polliwog

Examples of pollywog in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Then the ceremony began with the shellbacks spraying each pollywog with high-pressure fire hoses before getting whipped with shillelaghs. Staff Author, Peoplemag, 25 Jan. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'pollywog.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

alteration of Middle English polwygle, probably from pol poll + wiglen to wiggle

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pollywog was in 1838

Dictionary Entries Near pollywog

Cite this Entry

“Pollywog.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pollywog. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

pollywog

noun
pol·​ly·​wog
variants or polliwog

More from Merriam-Webster on pollywog

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