# wishbone

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈwɪʃˌboʊn/ · frequency rank #53,340

## Definitions
1. A forked bone between the neck and breast of a bird consisting chiefly of the two clavicles fused at their median or lower end, regarded as a lucky charm in some countries.
2. A spar in two parts, between which a sail is hoisted, the wishbone extending its clew.
3. Any sailing vessel rigged with a wishbone.
4. A particular kind of offensive formation. See wishbone formation.
5. A suspension component similar in shape to a chicken wishbone.

## Etymology
From wish + bone.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/wishbone