In phrases as "the son of a white hen", "a white hen's chick (also chicken)"): a fortunate person or thing; a favourite child; compare senses A. 9 and A. 10.
Origin
Mid 16th century; earliest use found in John Palsgrave (d. 1554), teacher and scholar of languages.
Definition of white hen in US English:
white hen
noun
In phrases as "the son of a white hen", "a white hen's chick (also chicken)"): a fortunate person or thing; a favourite child; compare senses A. 9 and A. 10.
Origin
Mid 16th century; earliest use found in John Palsgrave (d. 1554), teacher and scholar of languages.