Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

kentucky-windage

noun
/kənˈtʌk.iˌwɪn.dɪdʒ/
Definition
Kentucky-windage refers to the practice of adjusting for the wind when aiming a firearm, particularly when the shooter is unsure of the exact wind conditions.
Examples
  • When hunting in open fields, it’s important to take Kentucky-windage into account to ensure an accurate shot.

  • The shooter applied a bit of Kentucky-windage on his rifle to compensate for the swirling winds.

  • Despite the unfavorable weather, he managed to hit the target by using a quick bit of Kentucky-windage.

Meaning
It is often used humorously or informally to describe a rough estimate or adjustment made when precise information is unavailable, especially in the context of shooting or aiming.
Synonyms
  • guesswork
  • estimation
  • rough adjustment