Paddywhack

Paddywhack (Ligamentum nuchae) is a strong elastic ligament or tendon in the midline of the neck of sheep or cattle (generally any quadruped) which relieves the animal of the weight of its head. It is pale yellow in colour.

It is referred to in the children's nursery rhyme This Old Man.

Most commonly found in the pet department of stores where it is packaged dried as a dog treat/food

Etymology : corruption of paxwax (originally faxwax Old English hair + to grow).

See also

• Nuchal ligament

References

• Beef Carcase Grading System Meat Standards Australia