Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

wishbone

noun

/ˈwɪʃboʊn/

Definition

The wishbone is a Y-shaped bone located in the chest of birds, formed by the fusion of the clavicles. It is commonly known for the tradition of breaking it during festive gatherings.

Examples

On Thanksgiving, we always break the wishbone to see who gets to make their wish.
The children eagerly awaited their turn to pull the wishbone apart.

Meaning

It symbolizes a hope or desire. In many cultures, two people pull on the ends of a wishbone and make a wish before breaking it. The person with the larger piece is said to have their wish granted.