noun
jailbird
noun
1
Someone who has been, or currently is, in jail — usually said of a repeat offender.
"The neighbors all knew he was a jailbird before he moved to town."
How to Use Jailbird
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn informal, slightly mocking word for a convict or ex-convict.
When to use it
Informal and a bit derogatory — avoid in formal or legal writing.
Word Forms
jailbirds plural
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Etymology
A blend of "jail" and "bird" dating to around 1600, on the same pattern as the older "gallows bird" (someone destined for the gallows).