White Feather

A white feather has been a traditional symbol of cowardice, used and recognised especially within the British Army and in countries associated with the British Empire since the 18th century. It also carries opposite meanings, however: in some cases of pacifism, and in the United States, of extraordinary bravery and excellence in combat marksmanship.

Read more about White Feather:  A Symbol of Cowardice, A Symbol of Pacifism and Peace, Other Symbolism

Famous quotes containing the words white and/or feather:

    A decent chap, a real good sort,
    Straight as a die, one of the best,
    A brick, a trump, a proper sport,
    Head and shoulders above the rest;
    How many lives would have been duller
    Had he not been here below?
    Here’s to the whitest man I know
    Though white is not my favourite colour.
    Philip Larkin (1922–1986)

    Was ever feather so lightly blown to and fro as this multitude?
    William Shakespeare (1564–1616)