lobster-backed
Definition
- Adjective: Used to describe British soldiers during the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783) because of the distinctive red color of their military coats, which was humorously or derogatorily compared to the shell of a lobster.
Usage
- This term is a historical reference and is not used in modern contexts to describe soldiers.
- It is primarily found in historical texts, narratives, or discussions about the American Revolution.
- The term often carries a derogatory or mocking tone, reflecting the perspective of the American colonists.
Examples
- The colonial militiamen hid behind trees, waiting for the lobster-backed regulars to march down the road.
- In many paintings of the era, the lobster-backed soldiers form bright red lines against the battlefield.
Advanced Usage
- The term is a specific example of a metonym, where a characteristic (the red coat) is used to refer to the whole (the British soldier).
- It also functions as a pejorative or nickname, similar to "redcoat," used by one side in a conflict to describe the other.
Variants and Related Words
- Redcoat (noun): A more common and direct synonym for a British soldier of the same historical period.
- Lobster (noun, historical slang): A shortened, informal form of "lobster-back" used as a noun. (e.g., "Watch out, the lobsters are coming!")
Synonyms
- Redcoat
- British regular (neutral term)
- King's man (historical term)
Related Idioms or Phrases
- "To see the lobsterbacks coming": An historical phrase meaning to spot the approach of British troops, often implying a need to prepare for battle or to retreat.
Adjective
-
used of British soldiers during the American Revolutionary War because of their red coats
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