Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—P

Prodigal

Festus says the Romans called victims wholly consumed by fire prodigæ hostiæ (victims prodigalised), and adds that those who waste their substance are therefore called prodigals. This derivation can hardly be considered correct. Prodigal is pro-ago or prod-igo (to drive forth), and persons who had spent all their patrimony were “driven forth” to be sold as slaves to their creditors.

Prodigal (The).
Albert VI., Duke of Austria. (1418-1463.)

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Prodigy
Procrustean
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