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coistril. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
coistril, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
coistril in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
coistril you have here. The definition of the word
coistril will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
coistril, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Etymology
Probably from Old French coustillier (“groom or lad”). Compare custrel.
Noun
coistril (plural coistrils)
- (obsolete) An inferior groom or lad employed by an esquire to carry the knight's arms and other necessaries; a coistrel.
- (obsolete) A mean, paltry fellow; a coward.
c. 1592, William Shakespeare, Anonymous, Arden of Faversham, act 3, scene 2:And he shall 'by his merriment as dear / As ever coistril bought so little sport: / Ne'er let this sword assist me when I need, / But rust and canker after I have sworn.
c. 1601–1602, William Shakespeare, Twelfth Night, act 1, scene 3:He's a coward and a coistril that will not / drink to my niece till his brains turn o'the toe like a / parish top.
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