yellow dog

noun

1. a cowardly, despicable person; a craven.

Word History and Origins

Origin of yellow dog¹

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

Beside him was a large yellow dog, which took one look at Frank and came running over.

From Literature

Mr. Amis was shortlisted for the award in 1991 for “Time’s Arrow,” and longlisted in 2003 for “Yellow Dog.”

From New York Times

The former rural affairs minister also said the party - which was granted two junior ministerial posts - were the "green tail wagging the yellow dog".

From BBC

A boy named Bo Willie wakes up one morning to find his “yellow dog” has fled, and embarks on a journey to find him.

From New York Times

The Supreme Court upheld "yellow dog" contracts that forbade workers from unionizing.

From Salon