ENGLISH
REFERENCE

polly

n. countable
C2 Proficiency US //ˈpɑɫi// pol·ly Slang

n. a common name for a pet parrot. People often use it as a general name when talking to or about these birds.

n. a traditional generic name for a parrot, often used as a term of address. Frequently appears in the phrase 'Polly wants a cracker'.


SIMPLE

Polly is a very talkative parrot.

CONTEXTUAL

The old sailor kept a colorful macaw named Polly that could mimic his laughter perfectly.

COMPLEX

The trope of the parrot named Polly has become so deeply embedded in maritime folklore that it serves as a shorthand for any talkative or repetitive companion.

Origin

Nickname for Mary, created by rhyming with Molly.

Usage

Often capitalized as a proper name, though used generically to refer to any parrot.

Idioms1 entry

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