Emily Dickinson Lexicon

GREN-A-DIER', n. [from Fr. grenade, Sp. granada, a pomegranate tree; so called, it is said, from the cap worn, which resembled the flowers of that tree; or as others alledge, so called from carrying and throwing hand grenades. The latter is the opinion of Lunier.]

1. A foot soldier, wearing a high cap. Grenadiers are usually tall active soldiers, distinguished from others chiefly by their dress and arms; a company of them is usually attached to each battalion. Encyc.
2. A fowl found in Angola, in Africa.