'fool's coat' definitions:

Definition of 'fool's coat'

From: GCIDE
  • Goldfinch \Gold"finch`\, n. [AS. goldfinc. See Gold, and Finch.] (Zool.) (a) A beautiful bright-colored European finch ({Carduelis elegans}). The name refers to the large patch of yellow on the wings. The front of the head and throat are bright red; the nape, with part of the wings and tail, black; -- called also goldspink, goldie, fool's coat, drawbird, draw-water, thistle finch, and {sweet William}. (b) The yellow-hammer. (c) A small American finch (Spinus tristis); the thistle bird. [1913 Webster]
  • Note: The name is also applied to other yellow finches, esp. to several additional American species of Spinus. [1913 Webster]