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Popinjay

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The Popinjay or Popingo (signifying a painted bird) is a popular diversion in Denmark; a Scottish variant is also known.

Members of Popinjay clubs -- likely from the upper classes -- would gather in a field in front of spectators; the festivities might also be marked by musical bands and other entertainments. Competitors armed with rifles would take turns shooting at the Popinjay, a small bird (carving?) which would be mounted on a high pole. An assortment of prizes awaited competitors who were first to shoot different parts of the bird.

The New York Times Everyday Dictionary (1982) defines popinjay as a noun signifying a vain person or fop. British Member of Parliament George Galloway used the term to describe, and insult, author and commentator Christopher Hitchens during a September 14, 2005, debate on the Iraq War, held at the City University of New York.