redshanks

1 definition found

redshanks - Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 :

  Redshank \Red"shank`\ (r?d"sh?nk`), n.
     1. (Zool.)
        (a) A common Old World limicoline bird (Totanus  calidris
            ), having the legs and feet pale red. The
            spotted redshank (Totanus fuscus) is larger, and has
            orange-red legs. Called also redshanks, redleg,
            and clee.
        (b) The fieldfare.
            [1913 Webster]
  
     2. A bare-legged person; -- a contemptuous appellation
        formerly given to the Scotch Highlanders, in allusion to
        their bare legs. --Spenser.
        [1913 Webster]