"Feather merchant"

Posted by Hilary April 04, 2006In reply to "Feather merchant" posted by Brian from Shawnee on April 04, 2006

Hi

I would be interested to know the origin and meaning of the term "Feather merchant".

From www.answers.com:

"A person short or of slight build or a person in a comfortable or easy assignment such as headquarters duty or some staff billet. Often used for all civilians working for the military."

I found this definition which fits with the way I have heard the expression used.

feather merchant

Older Slang.
a person who avoids responsibility and effort; loafer.