Why do we say "Chicken"?

[chappie]

Anyone know why we say someone is "chicken" if they are afraid to do something?

[nickmo]

Ever tried to catch one, or seen them in a run and somthing disturbs them? Probably a nicer description than shouting 'Piglet!!' at someone, (have the same desire not to be involved...)

Chickens don't defend there young either, like a goose will......

Chicken skin is generally yellow (not the farmed battery ones though) and this simply equstes to yellow for cowardice - and as the chicks are yellow too, that doubles the link

[chappie]

Thanks for reply.

[loulou80]

cluck cluck cluck

[joychow1985]

In China we call a prostitute "Chicken"~~~

we use "Mouse" to describe a timid person~~~ ^ ^

[Brando_#1]

I fancy some succulent Chicken tonight?