windlestraw noun. ['wɪnd(ǝ)lstrɔ:] Now arch., Scot., & dial. OE.
[from WINDLE noun¹ + STRAW noun.]
1. An old dry withered stalk of grass. OE.

2. Any of various long-stalked grasses, e.g. crested dog's tail, Cynosurus cristatus, and tufted hair-grass, Deschampsia cespitosa. Also windlestraw grass. OE.

3. fig. Something light, trifling, or flimsy; a thin lanky person; a person of feeble health or character. M17.

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲