The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, 4th Edition
n. A young hen that has been spayed for fattening.
the GNU version of the Collaborative International Dictionary of English
n. A pullet from which the ovaries have been removed to produce fattening; hence, a fat pullet.
The Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
n. A young hen fattened for the table; a spayed hen.
Word Usage
"Here he thought he might safely indulge himself with a comfortable meal; accordingly he bespoke a poulard for dinner, and while that was preparing, went forth to view the city and harbour."