The story
The name is modelled on Welsh rabbit. Just as Welsh rabbit contains no rabbit, Scotch woodcock contains no woodcock.
Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Today it means: A savoury dish of creamy scrambled eggs served over toast spread with anchovy paste or relish. Full definition →
The name is modelled on Welsh rabbit. Just as Welsh rabbit contains no rabbit, Scotch woodcock contains no woodcock.
Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.