furciferous

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“
This is the question of questions, to which we may demand an answer; and, according to that answer, observe the dilemma into which these furciferous knaves must drop.

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  1. In entomology, bearing a forked appendage or organ. Applied to certain lepidopterous larvæ which have, on the first segment behind the head, a forked tube, called the osmeteria, or scent organ, from which the insect can protrude slender threads, for the purpose, it is supposed, of frightening away ichneumons.
  2. Rascally; scoundrelly; villainous. De Quincey. [Rare.]

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Examples (1)

  • This is the question of questions, to which we may demand an answer; and, according to that answer, observe the dilemma into which these furciferous knaves must drop. —  Memorials and Other Papers — Complete
 

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Etymologies (1)

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  1. from Latin furcifer, bearing a fork or yoke, a yoke-bearer (much used as a term of vituperation, usually of slaves, equivalent to “rascal,” “gallows-bird”), from furca, a fork, also an instrument of punishment in the form of a fork (see furca, 1), + ferre = English bear.
 

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