DCHP-1 Online

wig see note Obs.

• n. the spinous process on the vertebrae in the hump above the shoulders of a buffalo, much prized as a delicacy.

  See also: boss  

  • Although Brit. dial. wig < ME wigge, a wedge or wedge-shaped cake, has been suggested as the source of this term, it is quite probable that a simple transfer of wig (hairpiece) is involved, for the heavy mane of the buffalo extended down over the hump so as to suggest a head and wig.

  • 1820  (1823)  The meat which covers the spinal processes themselves, after the wig is removed, is next in esteem. . . .
  • 1833  The hump or wig (of a bison) as it is sometimes called, has a fine grain. . . .