mossback
Pronunciations (2)
-
/ˈmɒsbæk/
Pronunciation notes
- Received-Pronunciation
-
/ˈmɔsˌbæk/
Pronunciation notes
- General-American
Noun
Synonym of mossyback (“a person with old-fashioned views; hence, one who is very conservative or reactionary”).
Usage- US usage
- Informal
A person who stayed hidden to evade conscription (especially by the Confederate States Army) during the American Civil War (1861–1865); a mossyback.
Usage- US usage
- Historical
- Informal
Senses relating to animals. A turtle that, because of its age, has a growth of algae on its back
Usage- US usage
Senses relating to animals. A common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina).
Usage- US usage
Senses relating to animals. Synonym of mossyback (“a fish that is large and old, especially one that has algae growing on its back”).
Usage- US usage
Senses relating to animals. A largemouth bass or moss bass (Micropterus salmoides).
Usage- US usage
Noun
an extremely old-fashioned conservative
- Broader terms
Word forms
mossbacks