sweeny

[ swee-nee ]

/ ˈswi ni /

atrophy of the shoulder muscles in horses.

Also swinney.

Origin of sweeny

1820–30, Americanism; compare dialectal German Schweine, Pennsylvania German Schwinne atrophy, Old English swindan to pine away, disappear

Glover was at the helm just then, while Sweeny was at the bow.

Overland |John William De Forest
Someone had passed a field glass up the loft ladder, and Sweeny was shrieking new delight and encouragement.

A Soldier's Trial |Charles King
"Godamighty made ye already busted, I'm a thinkin'," retorted Sweeny.

Overland |John William De Forest
Mrs. Sweeny wrapped a shawl round her shoulders, opened the bottom of the window and translated her husband's message.

Priscilla's Spies |George A. Birmingham

When he reached the bedroom he found Sweeny sitting on a chair with a deep frown on his face.

Priscilla's Spies |George A. Birmingham

sweeny

/ (ˈswiːnɪ) /

vet science a wasting of the shoulder muscles of a horse, esp as the result of a nerve injury

C19: probably from German dialect Schweine emaciation, atrophy