crawfish

Etymology

Folk etymology from Middle English crevis, from Old French crevice, influenced by fish. Compare crayfish, French écrevisse.

noun

  1. (Southern US, Midwestern US and Western US) Various freshwater crustaceans, crayfish.
  2. (South Africa) Various marine crustaceans, rock lobster; especially Jasus lalandii, the Cape crawfish.
  3. (Quebec, Canada, slang, derogatory) A slur against Anglo-Canadians used in some corners of Quebec (including the Gaspé).

verb

  1. (colloquial, Southern US) To backpedal, desert or withdraw (also used with out).
    I have never been one to flinch or crawfish when faced with an unpleasant task. 1968, Charles Portis, True Grit

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