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maypole
trans. of Cdn F mai, q.v.
Hist.
DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.
1n.
(originally associated with the northern Indians) a tall, conspicuous spruce or pine denuded of all but its topmost branches to serve as a mark of honor for a friend, as a monument, or often as a living talisman of the man for whom it was made.
Quotations
1801
[There was the singular appearance of a spruce fir, stripped of its branches to the top like an English may-pole.]
1811
On Mr. M'Kay's return . . . he ordered one of his men to climb a lofty tree and dress it for a May-pole.
1859
It is customary for the voyageurs to make what they call a "lob stick" or "may pole," in honor of any gentlemen who may be passengers with them; and on Cross Lake ours made one for Mr. Hubbard and myself.
2n.
such a tree serving as a landmark.
See: lobstick(def. 2)
Quotations
1850
It may be distinguished by a tall pine-tree trimmed into a Maypole.
1933
The Mai was probably a lobstick, or maypole, a favorite landmark of voyageurs. Such a pole was made by cutting away all but a few branches of a tree, usually one which stood on a headland or promontory.