The name of a large island in the Malay archipelago. Used attrib. in the names of things connected with it in origin, as Java almond, Canarium commune (Miller, Plant-n., 1884); Java plum, Eugenia Jambolana: see JAMBO b; Java sparrow, a kind of Weaver-bird (Amadina oryzivora). Also ellipt., Java, a variety of domestic fowl.
1842. Java plum [see JAMAN].
1861. Mayhew, Lond. Labour, II. 82. The Java sparrows are chiefly in demand for the aviaries of the rich in town and country.
1893. Newton, Dict. Birds, Java Sparrow, one of the best known of exotic cage-birds, Padda or Munia oryzivora,… family Ploceidæ.
