Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

lobsterback

noun
ˈlɒbstəˌbæk
Definition
A derogatory term used to describe a British soldier, especially during the American Revolutionary War, known for their red uniforms.
Examples
  • The colonists referred to the British troops as lobsterbacks due to their bright red uniforms.
  • During protests, the term ‘lobsterback’ was shouted at the red-coated soldiers marching down the street.
Meaning
The term ‘lobsterback’ refers to soldiers of the British Army who wore distinctive red coats, resembling the color of a cooked lobster. It highlights the unpopularity of these soldiers among American colonists.
Synonyms
  • redcoat
  • British soldier
  • Royalist