poach

poach

poach¹ [pōch]

vt.

[ME pochen < MFr pochier, to pocket < poche, pouch, pocket (< Frank * pokka, pocket: for IE base see POKE²): the yolk is “pocketed” in the white]

to cook (fish, an egg without its shell, etc.) in water or other liquid near boiling point, or in a small receptacle placed over boiling water

poach² [pōch]

vt.

[Fr pocher < OFr pochier, to tread upon, intrude < MHG bochen, puchen, to strike upon, plunder, akin to POKE¹]

1. to soften, tear up, or make holes in (ground) by stamping; trample

2. to mix with water until smooth

3.

a) to trespass on (private property), esp. for hunting or fishing

b) to hunt or catch (game or fish) illegally, esp. by trespassing

4. to take (anything) by unfair or illegal methods; steal

vi.

1. to sink into soft or wet earth when walking

2. to become soggy or full of holes when trampled; turn into mud

3. to hunt or fish illegally, esp. by trespassing on

4. Racket Sports to return a shot near the net that was intended for one's partner in the back court

poacher

n.