Wishbone: meaning, definitions and examples
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wishbone
[ ˈwɪʃˌboʊn ]
culinary tradition
A wishbone is a forked bone found in birds, particularly chicken and turkey, which is traditionally used in a game of luck. Two people grasp each end of the dried wishbone and pull it apart, with the person holding the larger piece making a wish. The practice is rooted in ancient belief, as it was thought that touching this bone could grant one's wish. The wishbone is also known as the 'furcula' in scientific terms, and it is formed by the fusion of two clavicles in birds.
Synonyms
Y-shaped bone, furcula.
Examples of usage
- We saved the wishbone from the roast chicken for our tradition.
- After dinner, the children eagerly reached for the wishbone.
- He made a wish before pulling the wishbone with his sister.
- The winning piece of the wishbone brings good luck.
Translations
Translations of the word "wishbone" in other languages:
🇵🇹 osso da sorte
🇮🇳 इच्छा हड्डी
🇩🇪 Wunschknochen
🇮🇩 tulang harapan
🇺🇦 косточка бажання
🇵🇱 kość życzeń
🇯🇵 願い骨
🇫🇷 os de souhait
🇪🇸 hueso de deseo
🇹🇷 istek kemiği
🇰🇷 소원뼈
🇸🇦 عظمة الأمنيات
🇨🇿 kost přání
🇸🇰 kosť priania
🇨🇳 许愿骨
🇸🇮 kost želje
🇮🇸 óskasteinn
🇰🇿 тілек сүйегі
🇬🇪 სურვილის ძვალი
🇦🇿 arzu sümüyü
🇲🇽 hueso de deseo
Etymology
The term 'wishbone' comes from the 19th century, derived from the earlier practice of birds having a forked bone called the 'furcula.' The word 'wish' in the context of the wishbone practice emphasizes the custom of making a wish when pulling the bone apart. Historically, ancient cultures, including the Romans and the Celts, believed that the wishbone possessed magical properties, leading to its use in various rituals. The wishbone tradition continues today, particularly during festive occasions like Thanksgiving, where families and friends gather to partake in the ritual together. This practice, steeped in lore and communal experience, underscores the bond between individuals and the cultural significance of sharing wishes and hopes.