Hypertext Webster Gateway: "merrythought"
From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) (web1913)
Merrythought \Mer"ry*thought`\, n.
The forked bone of a fowl's breast; -- called also
{wishbone}. See {Furculum}.
Note: It is a sportive custom for two persons to break this
bone by pulling the ends apart to see who will get the
longer piece, the securing of which is regarded as a
lucky omen, signifying that the person holding it will
obtain the gratification of some secret wish.
From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) (web1913)
Wishbone \Wish"bone`\, n.
The forked bone in front of the breastbone in birds; --
called also {merrythought}, and {wishing bone}. See
{Merrythought}, and {Furculum}.
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