“Wee Thre Bath Deities bee,Humbug, Follie, and Varietee.”Gradually from this time the word began to assume a place in periodical literature, and in novels not written by squeamish or over-precise authors. In the preface to a flat, and, I fear, unprofitable poem, entitled,The Reign ofHUMBUG,a Satire, 8vo., 1836, the author thus apologises for the use of the word—“I have used the termHUMBUGto designate this principle [wretched sophistry of life generally], considering that it is now adopted into our language as much as the wordsdunce,jockey,cheat,swindler, &c., which were formerly only colloquial terms.” A correspondent, who in a late number ofAdersariaingeniously tracedbombastto the inflated Doctor Paracelsus Bombast, considers thatHUMBUGmay, in like manner, be derived fromHomberg, the distinguished chemist of the court of the Duke of Orleans, who, according to the following passage from Bishop Berkeley’s “Siris,” was an ardent and successful seeker after the philosopher’s stone!“§ 194.—Of this there cannot be a better proof than the experiment of Monsieur Homberg,WHO MADE GOLD OF MERCURY BY INTRODUCING LIGHT INTO ITS PORES, but at such trouble and expense, that, I suppose, nobody will try the experiment for profit. By this injunction of light and mercury, both bodies became fixed, and produced a third different to either, to wit, real gold. For the truth of whichFACTI refer to the memoirs of the French Academy of Sciences.”—Berkeley’s Works, vol. ii., p. 366, (Wright’s edition).The universal use of this term is remarkable; in California there is a town calledHumbug Flat—a name which gives a significant hint of the acuteness of the first settler.HUM-DRUM, tedious, tiresome, boring; “a society of gentlemen who used to meet near the Charter House, or at the King’s Head, St. John’s street. They were characterised by less mystery and more pleasantry than the Freemasons.”—Bacchus and Venus, 1737. In theWesta low cart.HUMP, to botch, or spoil.HUMP UP, “to have one’sHUMP UP,” to be cross or ill-tempered—like a cat with its back set up.—SeeMONKEY.HUMPTY DUMPTY, short and thick.HUNCH, to shove, or jostle.HUNTER PITCHING, cockshies, or three throws a penny.—SeeCOCKSHY.HUNTING THE SQUIRREL, when hackney and stage coachmen try to upset each other’s vehicles on the public roads.Nearly obsolete.HURDY-GURDY, a droning musical instrument shaped like a large fiddle, and turned by a crank, used by Savoyards and itinerant foreign musicians in England, now nearly superseded by the hand-organ. A correspondent suggests that the name is derived from beinggirdedon theHARDIES, loins or buttocks.—Scotch;Tam o’Shanter. InItalythe instrument is calledVIOLA.HUSH-MONEY, a sum given to quash a prosecution or evidence.HUSH-SHOP, orCRIB, a shop where beer or spirits is sold “on the quiet”—no licence being paid.HYPS, orHYPO, the blue devils.From Hypochondriasis.—Swift.IN, “to beINwith a person,” to be even with, orUPto him.IN FOR IT, in trouble or difficulty of any kind.IN FOR PATTER, waiting for trial.INEXPRESSIBLES,UNUTTERABLES,UNWHISPERABLES, orSIT-UPONS, trousers, the nether garments.INNINGS, earnings, money coming in; “he’s had longINNINGS,”i.e., a good run of luck, plenty of cash flowing in.INSIDE LINING, dinner, &c.INTERESTING, “to be in anINTERESTINGsituation,” applied to females whenenceinte.INTO, “hold my hat, Jim, I’ll beINTOhim,”i.e., I will fight him. In this sense equivalent toPITCH INTOorSLIP INTO.INVITE, an invitation—a corruption used by stuck-up people of mushroom origin.IPSAL DIXAL, Cockney corruption ofipse dixit—said of one’s simple uncorroborated assertion.IT’S GOOD ON THE STAR, it’s easy to open.IVORIES, teeth; “a box” or “cage ofIVORIES,” a set of teeth, the mouth; “wash yourIVORIES,”i.e., “drink.” The word is also used to denoteDICE.JABBER, to talk, or chatter. A cant word inSwift’stime.JACK, a low prostitute.JACK KETCH, the public hangman.—SeeKETCH.JACK SPRAT, a diminutive boy or man.JACK TAR, a sailor.JACK-AT-A-PINCH, one whose assistance is only sought on an emergency;JACK-IN-THE-WATER, an attendant at the watermen’s stairs on the river and sea-port towns, who does not mind wetting his feet for a customer’s convenience, in consideration of a douceur.JACKS,HALF JACKS, card counters, resembling in size and appearance sovereigns and half-sovereigns, for which they are occasionally passed to simple persons. In large gambling establishments the “heaps of gold” are frequently composed mainly ofJACKS.JACKETING, a thrashing.JACKEY, gin.JACOB, a ladder.Grosesays from Jacob’s dream.—Old cant.JAGGER, a gentleman.—German,JAGER, a sportsman.JAIL-BIRD, a prisoner, one who has been in jail.JAMES, a sovereign, or twenty shillings.JANNOCK, sociable, fair dealing.—Norfolk.JAPAN, to ordain.—University.JARK, a seal, or watch ornament.—Ancient cant.JARVEY, the driver of a hackney coach;JARVEY’S UPPER BENJAMIN, a coachman’s over-coat.JAW, speech, or talk; “hold yourJAW,” don’t speak any more; “what are youJAWINGabout?”i.e., what are you making a noise about?JAW-BREAKERS, hard or many-syllabled words.JAZEY, a wig. A corruption ofJersey, the name for flax prepared in a peculiar manner, and of which common wigs were formerly made.JEAMES, (a generic for “flunkies,”) theMorning Postnewspaper—the organ of Belgravia and the “Haristocracy.”JEHU, old slang term for a coachman, or one fond of driving.JEMMY, a crowbar.JEMMY, a sheep’s head.—SeeSANGUINARY JAMES.JEMMY JESSAMY, a dandy.JERRY, a beer house.JERRY, a chamber utensil, abbreviation ofJEROBOAM.—Swift.JERRY-COME-TUMBLE, a water-closet.JERRY, a fog.JERUSALEM PONY, a donkey.JESSIE, “to give a personJESSIE,” to beat him soundly.—SeeGAS.JEW’S EYE, a popular simile for anything valuable. Probably a corruption of theItalian,GIOJE;French,JOUAILLE, a jewel. In ancient times, when a king was short of cash, he generally issued orders for so manyJew’s eyes, or equivalent sums of money. The Jews preferred paying the ransom, although often very heavy. We thus realise the popularly believed origin ofJEW’S EYE.Used byShakespere.JEW-FENCER, a Jew street salesman.JIB, the face, or a person’s expression; “the cut of hisJIB,”i.e.his peculiar appearance. The sail of a ship, which in position and shape corresponds to the nose on a person’s face.—SeeGIB.—Sea.JIB, orJIBBER, a horse that starts or shrinks.Shakespereuses it in the sense of a worn out horse.JIBB, the tongue.—Gipsey and Hindoo.JIFFY, “in aJIFFY,” in a moment.JIGGER, a secret still, illicit spirits.—Scotch.JIGGER, “I’mJIGGEREDif you will,” a common form of mild swearing.—SeeSNIGGER.JIGGER, a door; “dub theJIGGER,” shut the door.Ancient cant,GYGER. In billiards thebridgeon the table is often termed theJIGGER.JIGGER-DUBBERS, term applied to jailors or turnkeys.JILT, a crowbar or housebreaking implement.JINGO, “byJINGO,” a common form of oath, said to be a corruption ofSt. Gingoulph.—Vide Halliwell.JOB, a short piece of work, a prospect of employment.JohnsondescribesJOBas a low word, without etymology. It is, and was, however, a cant word, and aJOB, two centuries ago, was an arranged robbery. Even at the present day it is mainly confined to the streets, in the sense of employment for a short time. Amongst undertakers aJOBsignifies a funeral; “to do aJOB,” conduct any one’s funeral; “by theJOB,”i.e.,piece-work, as opposed totime-work. AJOBin political phraseology is a Government office or contract, obtained by secret influence or favouritism.To JOE BLAKE THE BARTLEMY, to visit a low woman.JOEY, a fourpenny piece. The term is derived (likeBOBBYfromSir Robert Peel) from Joseph Hume, the late respected M.P. The explanation is thus given inHawkins’ History of the Silver Coinage of England.“These pieces are said to have owed their existence to the pressing instance of Mr. Hume, from whence they, for some time, bore the nickname ofJOEYS. As they were very convenient to pay short cab fares, the Hon. M.P. was extremely unpopular with the drivers, who frequently received only agroatwhere otherwise they would have received a sixpence without any demand for change.” The term originated with the London cabmen, who have invented many others.JOG-TROT, a slow but regular trot, or pace.JOGUL, to play up, at cards or other game.Spanish,JUGAR.JOHN THOMAS, a generic for “flunkies,”—footmen popularly represented with large calves and bushy whiskers.JOLLY, a word of praise, or favourable notice; “chuck Harry aJOLLY, Bill!”i.e., go and praise up his goods, or buy of him, and speak well of the article, that the crowd standing around his stall may think it a good opportunity to lay out their money. “Chuck aJOLLY,” literally translated, is to throw a shout or a good word.JOLLY, a Royal Marine.—SeeHORSE MARINE.JOMER, a sweetheart, or favourite girl.—SeeBLOWER.JORDAN, a chamber utensil.—Saxon.JOSKIN, a countryman.JUG, a prison, or jail.JUMP, to seize, or rob; “toJUMPa man,” to pounce upon him, and either rob or maltreat him; “toJUMPa house,” to rob it.—SeeGO.JUNIPER, gin.—Household Words, No. 183.JUNK, salt beef.—SeeOLD HORSE.KEEL-HAULING, a good thrashing or mauling, rough treatment,—from the old nautical custom of punishing offenders by throwing them overboard with a rope attached and hauling them up from under the ship’s keel.KEEP IT UP, to prolong a debauch, or the occasion of a rejoicing—a metaphor drawn from the game of shuttlecock.—Grose.KEN, a house.—Ancient cant.Khan,GipseyandOriental.⁂ All slang and cant words which end inKEN, such asSPIELKEN,SPINIKEN,BAWDYKEN, orBOOZINGKEN, refer tohouses, and are partly ofGipseyorigin.KEN-CRACKERS, housebreakers.KENNEDY, to strike or kill with a poker. A St. Giles’ term, so given from a man of that name being killed by a poker. Frequently shortened toNEDDY.KENT RAG, orCLOUT, a cotton handkerchief.KERTEVER-CARTZO, the venereal disease. From theLingua Franca,CATTIVO, bad, andCAZZO, the male generative organ.KETCH, orJACK KETCH, the popular name for a public hangman—derived from a person of that name who officiated in the reign of Charles II.—See Macaulay’s History of England, p. 626.KIBOSH, nonsense, stuff, humbug; “it’s allKIBOSH,”i.e., palaver or nonsense; “to put on theKIBOSH,” to run down, slander, degrade, &c.—SeeBOSH.KICK, a moment; “I’ll be there in aKICK,”i.e., in a minute.KICK, a sixpence; “two and aKICK,” two shillings and sixpence.KICK, a pocket.KICK THE BUCKET, to die.—Norfolk.According to Forby, a metaphor taken from the descent of a well or mine, which is of course absurd. The Rev. E. S. Taylor supplies me with the following note from his MS. additions to the work of the East-Anglian lexicographer:—“The allusion is to the way in which a slaughtered pig is hung up, viz., by passing the ends of a bent piece of wood behind the tendons of the hind legs, and so suspending it to a hook in a beam above. This piece of wood is locally termeda bucket, and so by a coarse metaphor the phrase came to signify to die. Compare the Norfolk phrase “as wrong as a bucket.”The natives of the West Indies have converted the expression intoKICKERABOO.KICK-UP, a noise or disturbance.KICK UP, “toKICK UParow,” to create a tumult.KICKSHAWS, trifles; made, or French dishes—not English, or substantial. Corruption of theFrench,QUELQUES CHOSES.KICKSIES, trousers.KICKSY, troublesome, disagreeable.KID, an infant, or child.KID, to joke, to quiz, to hoax anybody.KID-ON, to entice, or incite a person on to the perpetration of an act.KID-RIG, cheating children in the streets sent on errands, or entrusted with packages.Nearly obsolete.KIDDEN, a low lodging house for boys.KIDDIER, a pork-butcher.KIDDILY, fashionably, or showily; “KIDDILYtogg’d,” showily dressed.KIDDLEYWINK, a small shop where they retail the commodities of a village store. Also, a loose woman.KIDDY, a man or boy. Formerly a low thief.KIDDYISH, frolicsome, jovial.“Think on theKIDDYISHspree we had on such a day.”Randall’s Diary, 1820.KIDMENT, a pocket-handkerchief fastened to the pocket, and partially hung out to entrap thieves.KIDNAPPER, one who steals children or adults. FromKID, a child, andNAB(corrupted toNAP), to steal, or seize.KIDNEY, “of thatKIDNEY,” of such a stamp: “strangeKIDNEY,” odd humour; “two of aKIDNEY,” two persons of a sort, or as like as two peas,i.e., resembling each other like two kidneys in a bunch.—Old.“Attempt to put their hair out ofKIDNEY.”—Terræ Filius, 1763.KIDSMAN, one who trains boys to thieve and pick pockets successfully.KILKENNY CAT, a popular simile for a voracious or desperate animal or person, from the story of the two cats in that county, who are said to have fought and bitten each other until a small portion of the tail of one of them alone remained.KILLING, bewitching, fascinating. The term is akin to the phrase “dressing toDEATH.”KIMBO, orA-KIMBO, holding the arms in a bent position from the body, and resting the hands upon the hips, in a bullying attitude. Said to be fromA SCHEMBO,Italian; but more probably fromKIMBAW, the old cant for beating, or bullying.—See Grose.KINCHIN, a child.—Old cant.From theGermandiminutive,KINDCHEN, a baby.KINCHIN COVE, a man who robs children; a little man.—Ancient cant.KINGSMAN, the favourite coloured neckerchief of the costermongers. The women wear them thrown over their shoulders. With both sexes they are more valued than any other article of clothing. A coster’scaste, or position, is at stake, he imagines, if hisKINGSMANis not of the most approved pattern. When he fights, hisKINGSMANis tiedeither around his waist as a belt, or as a garter around his leg. This very singular partiality for a peculiar coloured neckcloth was doubtless derived from the Gipseys, and probably refers to an Oriental taste or custom long forgotten by these vagabonds. A singular similarity of taste for certain colours exists amongst the Hindoos, Gipseys, and London costermongers. Red and yellow (or orange) are the great favourites, and in these hues the Hindoo selects his turban and his robe; the Gipsey his breeches, and his wife her shawl or gown; and the costermonger his plush waistcoat and favouriteKINGSMAN. Amongst either class, when a fight takes place, the greatest regard is paid to the favourite coloured article of dress. The Hindoo lays aside his turban, the Gipsey folds up his scarlet breeches or coat, whilst the pugilistic costermonger of Covent Garden or Billingsgate, as we have just seen, removes his favourite neckerchief to a part of his body, by the rules of the “ring,” comparatively out of danger. Amongst the various patterns of kerchiefs worn by the wandering tribes of London, red and yellow are the oldest and most in fashion. Blue, intermixed with spots, is a late importation, probably from the Navy, through sporting characters.KING’S PICTURES (now, of course,QUEEN’S PICTURES), money.KISKY, drunk, fuddled.KISS CURL, a small curl twisted on the temple.—SeeBOW-CATCHER.KISS-ME-QUICK, the name given to the very small bonnets worn by females since 1850.KITE,seeFLY THE KITE.KNACKER, an old horse; a horse slaughterer.—Gloucestershire.KNAP, to receive, to take, to steal.KNAPPING-JIGGER, a turnpike-gate; “to dub at theKNAPPING-JIGGER,” to pay money at the turnpike.KNARK, a hard-hearted or savage person.KNIFE, “toKNIFEa person,” to stab, an un-English but now-a-days a very common expression.KNIFE IT, “cut it,” cease, stop, don’t proceed.KNIFE-BOARD, the seat running along the roof of an omnibus.KNIGHT, a common and ironical prefix to a man’s calling,—thus, “KNIGHTof the whip,” a coachman; “KNIGHTof the thimble,” a tailor.KNOCK ABOUT THE BUB, to hand or pass about the drink.KNOCK DOWN, orKNOCK ME DOWN, strong ale.KNOCK OFF, to give over, or abandon. A saying used by workmen about dinner, or other meal times, for upwards of two centuries.KNOCKED UP, tired, jaded, used up, done for. In the United States, amongst females, the phrase is equivalent to beingenceinte, so that Englishmen often unconsciously commit themselves when amongst our Yankee cousins.KNOCK-IN, the game ofloo.KNOCK-OUTS, orKNOCK-INS, disreputable persons who visit auction rooms and unite to buy the articles at their own prices. One of their number is instructed to buy for the rest, and after a few small bids as blinds to the auctioneer and bystanders, the lot is knocked down to theKNOCK-OUTbidders, at a nominal price—the competition to result from an auction being thus frustrated and set aside. At the conclusion of the sale the goods are paid for, and carried to some neighbouring public house, where they are re-sold orKNOCKED-OUT, and the difference between the first purchase and the second—or tap-roomKNOCK-OUT—is divided amongst the gang. As generally happens with ill-gotten gains, the money soon finds its way to the landlord’s pocket, and theKNOCK-OUTis rewarded with a red nose or a bloated face. Cunning tradesmen join theKNOCK-OUTSwhen an opportunity for money making presents itself. The lowest description ofKNOCK-OUTS, fellows with more tongue than capital, are termedBABES,—which see.KNOCKING-SHOP, a brothel, or disreputable house frequented by prostitutes.KNOWING, a slang term for sharpness; “KNOWINGcodger,” or “aKNOWINGblade,” one who can take you in, or cheat you, in any transaction you may have with him. It implies also deep cunning and foresight, and generally signifies dishonesty.“Who, on a spree with black eyed Sal, his blowen,So swell, so prime, so nutty and soKNOWING.”Don Juan.KNOWLEDGE-BOX, the head.—Pugilistic.KNUCKLE, to pick pockets after the most approved method.KNUCKLE TO, orKNUCKLE UNDER, to yield or submit.KNUCKLER, a pickpocket.KNULLER, old term for a chimney-sweep, who solicited jobs by ringing a bell. From theSaxon,CNYLLAN, to knell, or sound a bell.—SeeQUERIER.KOTOOING, misapplied flattery.—Illustrated London News, 7th January, 1860.KYPSEY, a basket.LA! a euphuistic rendering ofLORD, common amongst females and very precise persons; imagined by many to be a corruption ofLOOK!but this is a mistake. Sometimes pronouncedLAW, orLAWKS.LACING, a beating. From the phrase “I’llLACEyour jacket.”—L’Estrange.Perhaps to give a beating with alaceorlash.LADDER, “can’t see a hole in aLADDER,” said of any one who is intoxicated.LADDLE, a lady. Term with chimney-sweeps on the 1st of May. A correspondent suggests that the term may come from the brassladlesfor collecting money, always carried by the sweeps’ ladies.LAG, a returned transport, or ticket-of-leave convict.LAG, to void urine.—Ancient cant.LAGGED, transported for a crime.LAGGER, a sailor.LAME DUCK, a stock jobber who speculates beyond his capital and cannot pay his losses. Upon retiring from the Exchange he is said to “waddle out of the Alley.”LAMMING, a beating.—Old English,LAM; used byBeaumont and Fletcher.LAND LUBBER, sea term for a“landsman.”—SeeLOAFER.LAND-SHARK, a sailor’s definition of a lawyer.LAP THE GUTTER, to get drunk.LARK, fun, a joke; “let’s have a jolly goodLARK,” let us have a piece of fun.Mayhewcalls it “a convenient word covering much mischief.”—Anglo Saxon,LAC, sport; but more probably from the nautical termSKYLARKING,i.e., mounting to the highest yards and sliding down the ropes for amusement, which is allowed on certain occasions.LARRUP, to beat, or thrash.LARRUPING, a good beating or “hiding.”—Irish.LATCHPAN, the lower lip—properly a dripping pan; “to hang one’sLATCHPAN,” to pout, be sulky.—Norfolk.LAVENDER, “to be laid up inLAVENDER,” in pawn; or, when a person is out of the way for an especial purpose.—Old.LAY, to watch; “on theLAY,” on the look out—Shakespere.LED CAPTAIN, a fashionable spunger, a swell who, by artificeingratiates himself into the good graces of the master of the house, and lives at his table.LEARY, to look, or be watchful; shy.—Old cant.LEARY, flash, or knowing.LEARY BLOAK, a person who dresses showily.LEATHER, to beat or thrash. From the leather belt worn by soldiers and policemen, often used as a weapon in street rows.LEAVING SHOP, an unlicensed house where goods are taken in to pawn at exorbitant rates of interest.—Daily Telegraph, 1st August, 1859.LEEF, “I’d asLEEFdo it as not,”i.e., I have no objection to do it.—CorruptionofLIEF, orLEAVE.Old English,LIEF, inclined to.LEG IT, to run;LEG BAIL, to run off; “to give aLEG,” to assist, as when one mounts a horse; “making aLEG,” a countryman’s bow,—projecting the leg from behind as a balance to the head bent forward.—Shakespere.LEGGED, in irons.LEGS, orBLACKLEGS, disreputable sporting characters, and race-coursehabitués.LEGS OF MUTTON, inflated street term for sheeps’ trotters, or feet.LENGTH, forty-two lines of a dramatic composition.—Theat.LENGTH, six months’ imprisonment.—SeeSTRETCH.LET DRIVE, to strike, or attack with vigour.LET IN, to cheat or victimise.LET ON, to give an intimation of having some knowledge of a subject.Ramsayemploys the phrase in theGentle Shepherd. Common in Scotland.LETTY, a bed.Italian,LETTO.LEVANTER, a card sharper, or defaulting gambler. A correspondent states that it was formerly the custom to give out to the creditors, when a person was in pecuniary difficulties, and it was convenient for him to keep away, that he was gone to theEast, or theLEVANT; hence, when one loses a bet, and decamps without settling, he is said toLEVANT.LICK, a blow;LICKING, a beating; “to put in bigLICKS,” a curious and common phrase meaning that great exertions are being made.—Dryden; North.LICK, to excel, or overcome; “if you aint sharp he’llLICKyou,”i.e., be finished first. Signifies, also, to whip, chastise, or conquer.Ancient cant,LYCKE.LIFER, a convict who is sentenced to transportationfor life.LIFT, to steal, pick pockets; “there’s a clock beenLIFTED,” said when a watch has been stolen. The word is as old as the Border forays, and is used byShakespere.Shoplifteris a recognised term.LIGHT, “to be able to get aLIGHTat a house” is to get credit.LIGHT-FEEDERS, silver spoons.LIGHTS, a “cake,” a fool, a soft or “doughy” person.LIGHTS, the eyes.LIGHTNING, gin; “FLASH O’ LIGHTNING,” a glass of gin.LIMB OF THE LAW, a lawyer, or clerk articled to that profession.LINE, calling, trade, profession; “whatLINEare you in?” “the buildingLINE.”LINGO, talk, or language. Slang is termedLINGOamongst the lower orders.Italian,LINGUA.LIP, bounce, impudence; “come, none o’ yerLIP!”LIQUOR, orLIQUOR UP, to drink drams.—Americanism.In liquor, tipsy, or drunk.LITTLE GO, the “Previous Examination,” at Cambridge the first University examination for undergraduates in their second year of matriculation. At Oxford, the corresponding term isTHE SMALLS.LITTLE SNAKES-MAN, a little thief, who is generally passed through a small aperture to open any door to let in the rest of the gang.LIVE-STOCK, vermin of theinsectkind.LOAFER, a lazy vagabond. Generally considered anAmericanism.Loper, orLOAFER, however, was in general use as a cant term in the early part of the last century.Land-loper, was a vagabond who begged in the attire of a sailor; and the sea phrase,LAND-LUBBER, was doubtless synonymous.—See the Times, 3rd November, 1859, for a reference toLOAFER.LOAVER, money.—SeeLOUR.LOB, a till, or money drawer.LOBB, the head.—Pugilistic.LOBLOLLY, gruel.—Old: used byMarkhamas a sea term for grit gruel, or hasty pudding.LOBLOLLY BOY, a derisive term for a surgeon’s mate in the navy.LOBS, words.—Gipsey.LOBSTER, a soldier. Apolicemanfrom the colour of his coat is styled anunboiled, orrawLOBSTER.LOBSTER-BOX, a barrack, or military station.LOLLY, the head.—SeeLOBB.—Pugilistic.LONG-BOW, “to draw,” or “shoot with theLONG BOW,” to exaggerate.LONG-TAILED-ONES, bank notes, orFLIMSIES, for a large amount.LOOF FAKER, a chimney-sweep.—SeeFLUE FAKER.LOOSE.—SeeON THE LOOSE.LOOT, swag, or plunder.—Hindoo.LOP-SIDED, uneven, one side larger than the other.—Old.LOPE, this old form ofleapis often heard in the streets.LORD, “drunk as aLORD,” a common saying, probably referring to the facilities a man of fortune has for such a gratification; perhaps a sly sarcasm at the supposed habits of the “haristocracy.”LORD, a hump-backed man.—SeeMY LORD.LORD OF THE MANOR, a sixpence.LOUD, flashy, showy, as applied to dress or manner.—SeeBAGS.LOUR, orLOWR, money; “gammyLOWR,” bad money.—Ancient cant, andGipsey.LOUSE-TRAP, a small tooth comb.—Old cant.—SeeCATCH ’EM ALIVE.LOVE, at billiards “five to none” would be “fiveLOVE,”—aLOVEbeing the same as when one player does not score at all.LOVEAGE, tap droppings, a mixture of spirits, sweetened and sold to habitual dram-drinkers, principally females. Called alsoALLS.LUBBER, a clown, or fool.—Ancient cant,LUBBARE.LUBBER’S HOLE, an aperture in the maintop of a ship, by which a timid climber may avoid the difficulties of the “futtock shrouds”—hence, a sea term for any cowardly way of evading duty.LUCK, “down on one’sLUCK,” wanting money, or in difficulty.LUCKY, “to cut one’sLUCKY,” to go away quickly.—SeeSTRIKE.LUG, “my togs are inLUG,”i.e., in pawn.LUG, the ear.—Scotch.LUG, to pull, or slake thirst.—Old.LUG CHOVEY, a pawnbroker’s shop.LULLY PRIGGERS, rogues who steal wet clothes hung on lines to dry.LUMBER, to pawn or pledge.—Household Words, No. 183.LUMMY, jolly, first-rate.LUMPER, a contractor. On the river, more especially a person who contracts to deliver a ship laden with timber.LUMP THE LIGHTER, to be transported.LUMP WORK, work contracted for, or taken by thelump.LUMPERS, low thieves who haunt wharves and docks, and rob vessels; persons who sell old goods for new.LUMPY, intoxicated.LUNAN, a girl.—Gipsey.LURK, a sham, swindle, or representation of feigned distress.LURKER, an impostor who travels the country with false certificates of fires, shipwrecks, &c.LUSH, intoxicating drinks of all kinds, but generally used for beer. TheGlobe, 8th September, 1859, says “LUSHand its derivatives claimLushington, the brewer, as sponsor.”LUSH, to drink, or get drunk.LUSH-CRIB, a public house.LUSHINGTON, a drunkard, or one who continually soaks himself with drams, and pints of beer. Some years since there was a “Lushington Club” in Bow-street, Covent Garden.LUSHY, intoxicated. Johnson says “opposite to pale,” so red with drink.MAB, a cab, or hackney coach.MACE, a dressy swindler who victimizes tradesmen.MACE, to spunge, swindle, or beg, in a polite way; “give it him (a shopkeeper) on theMACE,”i.e., obtain goods on credit and never pay for them; also termed “striking theMACE.”MADZA, half.Italian,MEZZA. This word enters into combination with various cant phrases, mainly taken from theLingua Franca, asMADZA CAROON, half-a-crown, two-and-sixpence;MADZA SALTEE, a halfpenny [seeSALTEE];MADZA POONA, half-a-sovereign;MADZA ROUND THE BULL, half-a-pound of steak, &c.MAG, a halfpenny.—Ancient cant,MAKE.Meggswere formerly guineas.—B. M. Carew.MAG, to talk. A corruption ofNAG.—Old; henceMAGPIE.MAGGOTTY, fanciful, fidgetty. Whims and fancies were formerly termedMAGGOTS, from the popular belief that a maggot in the brain was the cause of any odd notion or caprice a person might exhibit.MAGSMAN, a street swindler, who watches for countrymen and “gullable” persons.MAHOGANY, “to have one’s feet under another man’sMAHOGANY,” to sit at his table, be supported on other than one’s own resources; “amputate yourMAHOGANY,”i.e., go away, or “cut your stick.”MAIN-TOBY, the highway, or the main road.MAKE, a successful theft, or swindle.MAKE, to steal.MAKE UP, personal appearance.—Theatrical.MANG, to talk.—Scotch.MARE’S NEST, a Cockney discovery of marvels, which turn out no marvels at all. An old preacher in Cornwall, up to very lately employed a different version, viz.: “a cow calving up in a tree.”MARINATED, transported;—from the salt-pickling fish undergo in Cornwall.—Old cant.MARINE, orMARINE RECRUIT, an empty bottle. This expression having once been used in the presence of an officer of marines, he was at first inclined to take it as an insult, until some one adroitly appeased his wrath by remarking that no offence could be meant, as all that it could possibly imply was, “one who had done his duty, and was ready to do it again.”—SeeHORSE MARINE.—Naval.MARRIAGE LINES, a marriage certificate.—Provincial.MARROWSKYING.—SeeMEDICAL GREEK.MARYGOLD, one million sterling.—SeePLUM.MASSACRE OF THE INNOCENTS, when the leader of the House of Commons goes through the doleful operation of devoting to extinction a number of useful measures at the end of the session, for want of time to pass them.—Vide Times, 20th July, 1859: Mr. C. Foster, on altering the time of the legislative sessions.—Parliamentary slang.MATE, the term a coster or low person applies to a friend, partner, or companion; “me and myMATEdid so and so,”is a common phrase with a low Londoner.—Originally aSea term.MAULEY, a signature, fromMAULEY, a fist; “put yourFISTto it,” is sometimes said by a low tradesman when desiring a fellow trader to put his signature to a bill or note.MAULEY, a fist, that with which one strikes as with aMALL.—Pugilistic.MAUND, to beg; “MAUNDERINGon the fly,” begging of people in the streets.—Old cant.Maung, to beg, is a term in use amongst theGipseys, and may also be found in theHindooVocabulary.Maund, however, is pureAnglo Saxon, fromMAND, a basket. Compare “beg,” which is derived fromBAG, a curious parallel.MAW, the mouth; “hold yourMAW,” cease talking.MAX, gin;MAX-UPON TICK, gin obtained upon credit.M. B. COAT,i.e.,Mark of the Beast, a name given to the long surtout worn by the clergy,—a modern Puritan form of abuse, said to have been accidentally disclosed to a Tractarian customer by a tailor’s orders to his foreman.MEALY-MOUTHED, plausible, deceitful.MEDICAL GREEK, the slang used by medical students at the hospitals. At the London University they have a way of disguising English, described by Albert Smith as theGower-street Dialect, which consists in transposing the initials of words,e.g., “poke a smipe”—smoke a pipe, “flutter-by”—butterfly, &c. This disagreeable nonsense is often termedMARROWSKYING.—SeeGREEK, St. Giles’ Greek, or the “Ægidiac” dialect, Language ofZIPH, &c.MENAGERY, the orchestra of a theatre.—Theatrical.MIDDY, abbreviation ofMIDSHIPMAN.—Naval.MIDGE NET, a lady’s veil.MIKE, to loiter; or, as a costermonger defined it, to “lazy about.” The term probably originated at St. Giles’, which used to be thronged with Irish labourers (Mike being so common a term with them as to become a generic appellation for Irishmen with the vulgar) who used to loiter about the Pound, and lean against the public-houses in the “Dials” waiting for hire.MILKY ONES, white linen rags.MILL, a fight, orSET TO.Ancient cant,MYLL, to rob.MILL, to fight or beat.MILL, the treadmill, prison.MILL-TOG, a shirt—most likely the prison garment.MISH, a shirt, or chemise. FromCOMMISSION, theAncient cantfor a shirt, afterwards shortened toK’MISHorSMISH, and then toMISH.French,CHEMISE;Italian,CAMICIA.“With his snowyCAMESEand his shaggy capote.”—Byron.MITTENS, fists.—Pugilistic.MIZZLE, to run away, or decamp; to disappear as in a mist. FromMIZZLE, a drizzling rain; a Scotch mist.
“Wee Thre Bath Deities bee,Humbug, Follie, and Varietee.”
“Wee Thre Bath Deities bee,Humbug, Follie, and Varietee.”
“Wee Thre Bath Deities bee,
Humbug, Follie, and Varietee.”
Gradually from this time the word began to assume a place in periodical literature, and in novels not written by squeamish or over-precise authors. In the preface to a flat, and, I fear, unprofitable poem, entitled,The Reign ofHUMBUG,a Satire, 8vo., 1836, the author thus apologises for the use of the word—“I have used the termHUMBUGto designate this principle [wretched sophistry of life generally], considering that it is now adopted into our language as much as the wordsdunce,jockey,cheat,swindler, &c., which were formerly only colloquial terms.” A correspondent, who in a late number ofAdersariaingeniously tracedbombastto the inflated Doctor Paracelsus Bombast, considers thatHUMBUGmay, in like manner, be derived fromHomberg, the distinguished chemist of the court of the Duke of Orleans, who, according to the following passage from Bishop Berkeley’s “Siris,” was an ardent and successful seeker after the philosopher’s stone!
“§ 194.—Of this there cannot be a better proof than the experiment of Monsieur Homberg,WHO MADE GOLD OF MERCURY BY INTRODUCING LIGHT INTO ITS PORES, but at such trouble and expense, that, I suppose, nobody will try the experiment for profit. By this injunction of light and mercury, both bodies became fixed, and produced a third different to either, to wit, real gold. For the truth of whichFACTI refer to the memoirs of the French Academy of Sciences.”—Berkeley’s Works, vol. ii., p. 366, (Wright’s edition).
“§ 194.—Of this there cannot be a better proof than the experiment of Monsieur Homberg,WHO MADE GOLD OF MERCURY BY INTRODUCING LIGHT INTO ITS PORES, but at such trouble and expense, that, I suppose, nobody will try the experiment for profit. By this injunction of light and mercury, both bodies became fixed, and produced a third different to either, to wit, real gold. For the truth of whichFACTI refer to the memoirs of the French Academy of Sciences.”—Berkeley’s Works, vol. ii., p. 366, (Wright’s edition).
The universal use of this term is remarkable; in California there is a town calledHumbug Flat—a name which gives a significant hint of the acuteness of the first settler.
HUM-DRUM, tedious, tiresome, boring; “a society of gentlemen who used to meet near the Charter House, or at the King’s Head, St. John’s street. They were characterised by less mystery and more pleasantry than the Freemasons.”—Bacchus and Venus, 1737. In theWesta low cart.
HUMP, to botch, or spoil.
HUMP UP, “to have one’sHUMP UP,” to be cross or ill-tempered—like a cat with its back set up.—SeeMONKEY.
HUMPTY DUMPTY, short and thick.
HUNCH, to shove, or jostle.
HUNTER PITCHING, cockshies, or three throws a penny.—SeeCOCKSHY.
HUNTING THE SQUIRREL, when hackney and stage coachmen try to upset each other’s vehicles on the public roads.Nearly obsolete.
HURDY-GURDY, a droning musical instrument shaped like a large fiddle, and turned by a crank, used by Savoyards and itinerant foreign musicians in England, now nearly superseded by the hand-organ. A correspondent suggests that the name is derived from beinggirdedon theHARDIES, loins or buttocks.—Scotch;Tam o’Shanter. InItalythe instrument is calledVIOLA.
HUSH-MONEY, a sum given to quash a prosecution or evidence.
HUSH-SHOP, orCRIB, a shop where beer or spirits is sold “on the quiet”—no licence being paid.
HYPS, orHYPO, the blue devils.From Hypochondriasis.—Swift.
IN, “to beINwith a person,” to be even with, orUPto him.
IN FOR IT, in trouble or difficulty of any kind.
IN FOR PATTER, waiting for trial.
INEXPRESSIBLES,UNUTTERABLES,UNWHISPERABLES, orSIT-UPONS, trousers, the nether garments.
INNINGS, earnings, money coming in; “he’s had longINNINGS,”i.e., a good run of luck, plenty of cash flowing in.
INSIDE LINING, dinner, &c.
INTERESTING, “to be in anINTERESTINGsituation,” applied to females whenenceinte.
INTO, “hold my hat, Jim, I’ll beINTOhim,”i.e., I will fight him. In this sense equivalent toPITCH INTOorSLIP INTO.
INVITE, an invitation—a corruption used by stuck-up people of mushroom origin.
IPSAL DIXAL, Cockney corruption ofipse dixit—said of one’s simple uncorroborated assertion.
IT’S GOOD ON THE STAR, it’s easy to open.
IVORIES, teeth; “a box” or “cage ofIVORIES,” a set of teeth, the mouth; “wash yourIVORIES,”i.e., “drink.” The word is also used to denoteDICE.
JABBER, to talk, or chatter. A cant word inSwift’stime.
JACK, a low prostitute.
JACK KETCH, the public hangman.—SeeKETCH.
JACK SPRAT, a diminutive boy or man.
JACK TAR, a sailor.
JACK-AT-A-PINCH, one whose assistance is only sought on an emergency;JACK-IN-THE-WATER, an attendant at the watermen’s stairs on the river and sea-port towns, who does not mind wetting his feet for a customer’s convenience, in consideration of a douceur.
JACKS,HALF JACKS, card counters, resembling in size and appearance sovereigns and half-sovereigns, for which they are occasionally passed to simple persons. In large gambling establishments the “heaps of gold” are frequently composed mainly ofJACKS.
JACKETING, a thrashing.
JACKEY, gin.
JACOB, a ladder.Grosesays from Jacob’s dream.—Old cant.
JAGGER, a gentleman.—German,JAGER, a sportsman.
JAIL-BIRD, a prisoner, one who has been in jail.
JAMES, a sovereign, or twenty shillings.
JANNOCK, sociable, fair dealing.—Norfolk.
JAPAN, to ordain.—University.
JARK, a seal, or watch ornament.—Ancient cant.
JARVEY, the driver of a hackney coach;JARVEY’S UPPER BENJAMIN, a coachman’s over-coat.
JAW, speech, or talk; “hold yourJAW,” don’t speak any more; “what are youJAWINGabout?”i.e., what are you making a noise about?
JAW-BREAKERS, hard or many-syllabled words.
JAZEY, a wig. A corruption ofJersey, the name for flax prepared in a peculiar manner, and of which common wigs were formerly made.
JEAMES, (a generic for “flunkies,”) theMorning Postnewspaper—the organ of Belgravia and the “Haristocracy.”
JEHU, old slang term for a coachman, or one fond of driving.
JEMMY, a crowbar.
JEMMY, a sheep’s head.—SeeSANGUINARY JAMES.
JEMMY JESSAMY, a dandy.
JERRY, a beer house.
JERRY, a chamber utensil, abbreviation ofJEROBOAM.—Swift.JERRY-COME-TUMBLE, a water-closet.
JERRY, a fog.
JERUSALEM PONY, a donkey.
JESSIE, “to give a personJESSIE,” to beat him soundly.—SeeGAS.
JEW’S EYE, a popular simile for anything valuable. Probably a corruption of theItalian,GIOJE;French,JOUAILLE, a jewel. In ancient times, when a king was short of cash, he generally issued orders for so manyJew’s eyes, or equivalent sums of money. The Jews preferred paying the ransom, although often very heavy. We thus realise the popularly believed origin ofJEW’S EYE.Used byShakespere.
JEW-FENCER, a Jew street salesman.
JIB, the face, or a person’s expression; “the cut of hisJIB,”i.e.his peculiar appearance. The sail of a ship, which in position and shape corresponds to the nose on a person’s face.—SeeGIB.—Sea.
JIB, orJIBBER, a horse that starts or shrinks.Shakespereuses it in the sense of a worn out horse.
JIBB, the tongue.—Gipsey and Hindoo.
JIFFY, “in aJIFFY,” in a moment.
JIGGER, a secret still, illicit spirits.—Scotch.
JIGGER, “I’mJIGGEREDif you will,” a common form of mild swearing.—SeeSNIGGER.
JIGGER, a door; “dub theJIGGER,” shut the door.Ancient cant,GYGER. In billiards thebridgeon the table is often termed theJIGGER.
JIGGER-DUBBERS, term applied to jailors or turnkeys.
JILT, a crowbar or housebreaking implement.
JINGO, “byJINGO,” a common form of oath, said to be a corruption ofSt. Gingoulph.—Vide Halliwell.
JOB, a short piece of work, a prospect of employment.JohnsondescribesJOBas a low word, without etymology. It is, and was, however, a cant word, and aJOB, two centuries ago, was an arranged robbery. Even at the present day it is mainly confined to the streets, in the sense of employment for a short time. Amongst undertakers aJOBsignifies a funeral; “to do aJOB,” conduct any one’s funeral; “by theJOB,”i.e.,piece-work, as opposed totime-work. AJOBin political phraseology is a Government office or contract, obtained by secret influence or favouritism.
To JOE BLAKE THE BARTLEMY, to visit a low woman.
JOEY, a fourpenny piece. The term is derived (likeBOBBYfromSir Robert Peel) from Joseph Hume, the late respected M.P. The explanation is thus given inHawkins’ History of the Silver Coinage of England.
“These pieces are said to have owed their existence to the pressing instance of Mr. Hume, from whence they, for some time, bore the nickname ofJOEYS. As they were very convenient to pay short cab fares, the Hon. M.P. was extremely unpopular with the drivers, who frequently received only agroatwhere otherwise they would have received a sixpence without any demand for change.” The term originated with the London cabmen, who have invented many others.
“These pieces are said to have owed their existence to the pressing instance of Mr. Hume, from whence they, for some time, bore the nickname ofJOEYS. As they were very convenient to pay short cab fares, the Hon. M.P. was extremely unpopular with the drivers, who frequently received only agroatwhere otherwise they would have received a sixpence without any demand for change.” The term originated with the London cabmen, who have invented many others.
JOG-TROT, a slow but regular trot, or pace.
JOGUL, to play up, at cards or other game.Spanish,JUGAR.
JOHN THOMAS, a generic for “flunkies,”—footmen popularly represented with large calves and bushy whiskers.
JOLLY, a word of praise, or favourable notice; “chuck Harry aJOLLY, Bill!”i.e., go and praise up his goods, or buy of him, and speak well of the article, that the crowd standing around his stall may think it a good opportunity to lay out their money. “Chuck aJOLLY,” literally translated, is to throw a shout or a good word.
JOLLY, a Royal Marine.—SeeHORSE MARINE.
JOMER, a sweetheart, or favourite girl.—SeeBLOWER.
JORDAN, a chamber utensil.—Saxon.
JOSKIN, a countryman.
JUG, a prison, or jail.
JUMP, to seize, or rob; “toJUMPa man,” to pounce upon him, and either rob or maltreat him; “toJUMPa house,” to rob it.—SeeGO.
JUNIPER, gin.—Household Words, No. 183.
JUNK, salt beef.—SeeOLD HORSE.
KEEL-HAULING, a good thrashing or mauling, rough treatment,—from the old nautical custom of punishing offenders by throwing them overboard with a rope attached and hauling them up from under the ship’s keel.
KEEP IT UP, to prolong a debauch, or the occasion of a rejoicing—a metaphor drawn from the game of shuttlecock.—Grose.
KEN, a house.—Ancient cant.Khan,GipseyandOriental.
⁂ All slang and cant words which end inKEN, such asSPIELKEN,SPINIKEN,BAWDYKEN, orBOOZINGKEN, refer tohouses, and are partly ofGipseyorigin.
KEN-CRACKERS, housebreakers.
KENNEDY, to strike or kill with a poker. A St. Giles’ term, so given from a man of that name being killed by a poker. Frequently shortened toNEDDY.
KENT RAG, orCLOUT, a cotton handkerchief.
KERTEVER-CARTZO, the venereal disease. From theLingua Franca,CATTIVO, bad, andCAZZO, the male generative organ.
KETCH, orJACK KETCH, the popular name for a public hangman—derived from a person of that name who officiated in the reign of Charles II.—See Macaulay’s History of England, p. 626.
KIBOSH, nonsense, stuff, humbug; “it’s allKIBOSH,”i.e., palaver or nonsense; “to put on theKIBOSH,” to run down, slander, degrade, &c.—SeeBOSH.
KICK, a moment; “I’ll be there in aKICK,”i.e., in a minute.
KICK, a sixpence; “two and aKICK,” two shillings and sixpence.
KICK, a pocket.
KICK THE BUCKET, to die.—Norfolk.According to Forby, a metaphor taken from the descent of a well or mine, which is of course absurd. The Rev. E. S. Taylor supplies me with the following note from his MS. additions to the work of the East-Anglian lexicographer:—
“The allusion is to the way in which a slaughtered pig is hung up, viz., by passing the ends of a bent piece of wood behind the tendons of the hind legs, and so suspending it to a hook in a beam above. This piece of wood is locally termeda bucket, and so by a coarse metaphor the phrase came to signify to die. Compare the Norfolk phrase “as wrong as a bucket.”
“The allusion is to the way in which a slaughtered pig is hung up, viz., by passing the ends of a bent piece of wood behind the tendons of the hind legs, and so suspending it to a hook in a beam above. This piece of wood is locally termeda bucket, and so by a coarse metaphor the phrase came to signify to die. Compare the Norfolk phrase “as wrong as a bucket.”
The natives of the West Indies have converted the expression intoKICKERABOO.
KICK-UP, a noise or disturbance.
KICK UP, “toKICK UParow,” to create a tumult.
KICKSHAWS, trifles; made, or French dishes—not English, or substantial. Corruption of theFrench,QUELQUES CHOSES.
KICKSIES, trousers.
KICKSY, troublesome, disagreeable.
KID, an infant, or child.
KID, to joke, to quiz, to hoax anybody.
KID-ON, to entice, or incite a person on to the perpetration of an act.
KID-RIG, cheating children in the streets sent on errands, or entrusted with packages.Nearly obsolete.
KIDDEN, a low lodging house for boys.
KIDDIER, a pork-butcher.
KIDDILY, fashionably, or showily; “KIDDILYtogg’d,” showily dressed.
KIDDLEYWINK, a small shop where they retail the commodities of a village store. Also, a loose woman.
KIDDY, a man or boy. Formerly a low thief.
KIDDYISH, frolicsome, jovial.
“Think on theKIDDYISHspree we had on such a day.”Randall’s Diary, 1820.
“Think on theKIDDYISHspree we had on such a day.”Randall’s Diary, 1820.
“Think on theKIDDYISHspree we had on such a day.”
Randall’s Diary, 1820.
KIDMENT, a pocket-handkerchief fastened to the pocket, and partially hung out to entrap thieves.
KIDNAPPER, one who steals children or adults. FromKID, a child, andNAB(corrupted toNAP), to steal, or seize.
KIDNEY, “of thatKIDNEY,” of such a stamp: “strangeKIDNEY,” odd humour; “two of aKIDNEY,” two persons of a sort, or as like as two peas,i.e., resembling each other like two kidneys in a bunch.—Old.“Attempt to put their hair out ofKIDNEY.”—Terræ Filius, 1763.
KIDSMAN, one who trains boys to thieve and pick pockets successfully.
KILKENNY CAT, a popular simile for a voracious or desperate animal or person, from the story of the two cats in that county, who are said to have fought and bitten each other until a small portion of the tail of one of them alone remained.
KILLING, bewitching, fascinating. The term is akin to the phrase “dressing toDEATH.”
KIMBO, orA-KIMBO, holding the arms in a bent position from the body, and resting the hands upon the hips, in a bullying attitude. Said to be fromA SCHEMBO,Italian; but more probably fromKIMBAW, the old cant for beating, or bullying.—See Grose.
KINCHIN, a child.—Old cant.From theGermandiminutive,KINDCHEN, a baby.
KINCHIN COVE, a man who robs children; a little man.—Ancient cant.
KINGSMAN, the favourite coloured neckerchief of the costermongers. The women wear them thrown over their shoulders. With both sexes they are more valued than any other article of clothing. A coster’scaste, or position, is at stake, he imagines, if hisKINGSMANis not of the most approved pattern. When he fights, hisKINGSMANis tiedeither around his waist as a belt, or as a garter around his leg. This very singular partiality for a peculiar coloured neckcloth was doubtless derived from the Gipseys, and probably refers to an Oriental taste or custom long forgotten by these vagabonds. A singular similarity of taste for certain colours exists amongst the Hindoos, Gipseys, and London costermongers. Red and yellow (or orange) are the great favourites, and in these hues the Hindoo selects his turban and his robe; the Gipsey his breeches, and his wife her shawl or gown; and the costermonger his plush waistcoat and favouriteKINGSMAN. Amongst either class, when a fight takes place, the greatest regard is paid to the favourite coloured article of dress. The Hindoo lays aside his turban, the Gipsey folds up his scarlet breeches or coat, whilst the pugilistic costermonger of Covent Garden or Billingsgate, as we have just seen, removes his favourite neckerchief to a part of his body, by the rules of the “ring,” comparatively out of danger. Amongst the various patterns of kerchiefs worn by the wandering tribes of London, red and yellow are the oldest and most in fashion. Blue, intermixed with spots, is a late importation, probably from the Navy, through sporting characters.
KING’S PICTURES (now, of course,QUEEN’S PICTURES), money.
KISKY, drunk, fuddled.
KISS CURL, a small curl twisted on the temple.—SeeBOW-CATCHER.
KISS-ME-QUICK, the name given to the very small bonnets worn by females since 1850.
KITE,seeFLY THE KITE.
KNACKER, an old horse; a horse slaughterer.—Gloucestershire.
KNAP, to receive, to take, to steal.
KNAPPING-JIGGER, a turnpike-gate; “to dub at theKNAPPING-JIGGER,” to pay money at the turnpike.
KNARK, a hard-hearted or savage person.
KNIFE, “toKNIFEa person,” to stab, an un-English but now-a-days a very common expression.
KNIFE IT, “cut it,” cease, stop, don’t proceed.
KNIFE-BOARD, the seat running along the roof of an omnibus.
KNIGHT, a common and ironical prefix to a man’s calling,—thus, “KNIGHTof the whip,” a coachman; “KNIGHTof the thimble,” a tailor.
KNOCK ABOUT THE BUB, to hand or pass about the drink.
KNOCK DOWN, orKNOCK ME DOWN, strong ale.
KNOCK OFF, to give over, or abandon. A saying used by workmen about dinner, or other meal times, for upwards of two centuries.
KNOCKED UP, tired, jaded, used up, done for. In the United States, amongst females, the phrase is equivalent to beingenceinte, so that Englishmen often unconsciously commit themselves when amongst our Yankee cousins.
KNOCK-IN, the game ofloo.
KNOCK-OUTS, orKNOCK-INS, disreputable persons who visit auction rooms and unite to buy the articles at their own prices. One of their number is instructed to buy for the rest, and after a few small bids as blinds to the auctioneer and bystanders, the lot is knocked down to theKNOCK-OUTbidders, at a nominal price—the competition to result from an auction being thus frustrated and set aside. At the conclusion of the sale the goods are paid for, and carried to some neighbouring public house, where they are re-sold orKNOCKED-OUT, and the difference between the first purchase and the second—or tap-roomKNOCK-OUT—is divided amongst the gang. As generally happens with ill-gotten gains, the money soon finds its way to the landlord’s pocket, and theKNOCK-OUTis rewarded with a red nose or a bloated face. Cunning tradesmen join theKNOCK-OUTSwhen an opportunity for money making presents itself. The lowest description ofKNOCK-OUTS, fellows with more tongue than capital, are termedBABES,—which see.
KNOCKING-SHOP, a brothel, or disreputable house frequented by prostitutes.
KNOWING, a slang term for sharpness; “KNOWINGcodger,” or “aKNOWINGblade,” one who can take you in, or cheat you, in any transaction you may have with him. It implies also deep cunning and foresight, and generally signifies dishonesty.
“Who, on a spree with black eyed Sal, his blowen,So swell, so prime, so nutty and soKNOWING.”Don Juan.
“Who, on a spree with black eyed Sal, his blowen,So swell, so prime, so nutty and soKNOWING.”Don Juan.
“Who, on a spree with black eyed Sal, his blowen,
So swell, so prime, so nutty and soKNOWING.”
Don Juan.
KNOWLEDGE-BOX, the head.—Pugilistic.
KNUCKLE, to pick pockets after the most approved method.
KNUCKLE TO, orKNUCKLE UNDER, to yield or submit.
KNUCKLER, a pickpocket.
KNULLER, old term for a chimney-sweep, who solicited jobs by ringing a bell. From theSaxon,CNYLLAN, to knell, or sound a bell.—SeeQUERIER.
KOTOOING, misapplied flattery.—Illustrated London News, 7th January, 1860.
KYPSEY, a basket.
LA! a euphuistic rendering ofLORD, common amongst females and very precise persons; imagined by many to be a corruption ofLOOK!but this is a mistake. Sometimes pronouncedLAW, orLAWKS.
LACING, a beating. From the phrase “I’llLACEyour jacket.”—L’Estrange.Perhaps to give a beating with alaceorlash.
LADDER, “can’t see a hole in aLADDER,” said of any one who is intoxicated.
LADDLE, a lady. Term with chimney-sweeps on the 1st of May. A correspondent suggests that the term may come from the brassladlesfor collecting money, always carried by the sweeps’ ladies.
LAG, a returned transport, or ticket-of-leave convict.
LAG, to void urine.—Ancient cant.
LAGGED, transported for a crime.
LAGGER, a sailor.
LAME DUCK, a stock jobber who speculates beyond his capital and cannot pay his losses. Upon retiring from the Exchange he is said to “waddle out of the Alley.”
LAMMING, a beating.—Old English,LAM; used byBeaumont and Fletcher.
LAND LUBBER, sea term for a“landsman.”—SeeLOAFER.
LAND-SHARK, a sailor’s definition of a lawyer.
LAP THE GUTTER, to get drunk.
LARK, fun, a joke; “let’s have a jolly goodLARK,” let us have a piece of fun.Mayhewcalls it “a convenient word covering much mischief.”—Anglo Saxon,LAC, sport; but more probably from the nautical termSKYLARKING,i.e., mounting to the highest yards and sliding down the ropes for amusement, which is allowed on certain occasions.
LARRUP, to beat, or thrash.
LARRUPING, a good beating or “hiding.”—Irish.
LATCHPAN, the lower lip—properly a dripping pan; “to hang one’sLATCHPAN,” to pout, be sulky.—Norfolk.
LAVENDER, “to be laid up inLAVENDER,” in pawn; or, when a person is out of the way for an especial purpose.—Old.
LAY, to watch; “on theLAY,” on the look out—Shakespere.
LED CAPTAIN, a fashionable spunger, a swell who, by artificeingratiates himself into the good graces of the master of the house, and lives at his table.
LEARY, to look, or be watchful; shy.—Old cant.
LEARY, flash, or knowing.
LEARY BLOAK, a person who dresses showily.
LEATHER, to beat or thrash. From the leather belt worn by soldiers and policemen, often used as a weapon in street rows.
LEAVING SHOP, an unlicensed house where goods are taken in to pawn at exorbitant rates of interest.—Daily Telegraph, 1st August, 1859.
LEEF, “I’d asLEEFdo it as not,”i.e., I have no objection to do it.—CorruptionofLIEF, orLEAVE.Old English,LIEF, inclined to.
LEG IT, to run;LEG BAIL, to run off; “to give aLEG,” to assist, as when one mounts a horse; “making aLEG,” a countryman’s bow,—projecting the leg from behind as a balance to the head bent forward.—Shakespere.
LEGGED, in irons.
LEGS, orBLACKLEGS, disreputable sporting characters, and race-coursehabitués.
LEGS OF MUTTON, inflated street term for sheeps’ trotters, or feet.
LENGTH, forty-two lines of a dramatic composition.—Theat.
LENGTH, six months’ imprisonment.—SeeSTRETCH.
LET DRIVE, to strike, or attack with vigour.
LET IN, to cheat or victimise.
LET ON, to give an intimation of having some knowledge of a subject.Ramsayemploys the phrase in theGentle Shepherd. Common in Scotland.
LETTY, a bed.Italian,LETTO.
LEVANTER, a card sharper, or defaulting gambler. A correspondent states that it was formerly the custom to give out to the creditors, when a person was in pecuniary difficulties, and it was convenient for him to keep away, that he was gone to theEast, or theLEVANT; hence, when one loses a bet, and decamps without settling, he is said toLEVANT.
LICK, a blow;LICKING, a beating; “to put in bigLICKS,” a curious and common phrase meaning that great exertions are being made.—Dryden; North.
LICK, to excel, or overcome; “if you aint sharp he’llLICKyou,”i.e., be finished first. Signifies, also, to whip, chastise, or conquer.Ancient cant,LYCKE.
LIFER, a convict who is sentenced to transportationfor life.
LIFT, to steal, pick pockets; “there’s a clock beenLIFTED,” said when a watch has been stolen. The word is as old as the Border forays, and is used byShakespere.Shoplifteris a recognised term.
LIGHT, “to be able to get aLIGHTat a house” is to get credit.
LIGHT-FEEDERS, silver spoons.
LIGHTS, a “cake,” a fool, a soft or “doughy” person.
LIGHTS, the eyes.
LIGHTNING, gin; “FLASH O’ LIGHTNING,” a glass of gin.
LIMB OF THE LAW, a lawyer, or clerk articled to that profession.
LINE, calling, trade, profession; “whatLINEare you in?” “the buildingLINE.”
LINGO, talk, or language. Slang is termedLINGOamongst the lower orders.Italian,LINGUA.
LIP, bounce, impudence; “come, none o’ yerLIP!”
LIQUOR, orLIQUOR UP, to drink drams.—Americanism.In liquor, tipsy, or drunk.
LITTLE GO, the “Previous Examination,” at Cambridge the first University examination for undergraduates in their second year of matriculation. At Oxford, the corresponding term isTHE SMALLS.
LITTLE SNAKES-MAN, a little thief, who is generally passed through a small aperture to open any door to let in the rest of the gang.
LIVE-STOCK, vermin of theinsectkind.
LOAFER, a lazy vagabond. Generally considered anAmericanism.Loper, orLOAFER, however, was in general use as a cant term in the early part of the last century.Land-loper, was a vagabond who begged in the attire of a sailor; and the sea phrase,LAND-LUBBER, was doubtless synonymous.—See the Times, 3rd November, 1859, for a reference toLOAFER.
LOAVER, money.—SeeLOUR.
LOB, a till, or money drawer.
LOBB, the head.—Pugilistic.
LOBLOLLY, gruel.—Old: used byMarkhamas a sea term for grit gruel, or hasty pudding.
LOBLOLLY BOY, a derisive term for a surgeon’s mate in the navy.
LOBS, words.—Gipsey.
LOBSTER, a soldier. Apolicemanfrom the colour of his coat is styled anunboiled, orrawLOBSTER.
LOBSTER-BOX, a barrack, or military station.
LOLLY, the head.—SeeLOBB.—Pugilistic.
LONG-BOW, “to draw,” or “shoot with theLONG BOW,” to exaggerate.
LONG-TAILED-ONES, bank notes, orFLIMSIES, for a large amount.
LOOF FAKER, a chimney-sweep.—SeeFLUE FAKER.
LOOSE.—SeeON THE LOOSE.
LOOT, swag, or plunder.—Hindoo.
LOP-SIDED, uneven, one side larger than the other.—Old.
LOPE, this old form ofleapis often heard in the streets.
LORD, “drunk as aLORD,” a common saying, probably referring to the facilities a man of fortune has for such a gratification; perhaps a sly sarcasm at the supposed habits of the “haristocracy.”
LORD, a hump-backed man.—SeeMY LORD.
LORD OF THE MANOR, a sixpence.
LOUD, flashy, showy, as applied to dress or manner.—SeeBAGS.
LOUR, orLOWR, money; “gammyLOWR,” bad money.—Ancient cant, andGipsey.
LOUSE-TRAP, a small tooth comb.—Old cant.—SeeCATCH ’EM ALIVE.
LOVE, at billiards “five to none” would be “fiveLOVE,”—aLOVEbeing the same as when one player does not score at all.
LOVEAGE, tap droppings, a mixture of spirits, sweetened and sold to habitual dram-drinkers, principally females. Called alsoALLS.
LUBBER, a clown, or fool.—Ancient cant,LUBBARE.
LUBBER’S HOLE, an aperture in the maintop of a ship, by which a timid climber may avoid the difficulties of the “futtock shrouds”—hence, a sea term for any cowardly way of evading duty.
LUCK, “down on one’sLUCK,” wanting money, or in difficulty.
LUCKY, “to cut one’sLUCKY,” to go away quickly.—SeeSTRIKE.
LUG, “my togs are inLUG,”i.e., in pawn.
LUG, the ear.—Scotch.
LUG, to pull, or slake thirst.—Old.
LUG CHOVEY, a pawnbroker’s shop.
LULLY PRIGGERS, rogues who steal wet clothes hung on lines to dry.
LUMBER, to pawn or pledge.—Household Words, No. 183.
LUMMY, jolly, first-rate.
LUMPER, a contractor. On the river, more especially a person who contracts to deliver a ship laden with timber.
LUMP THE LIGHTER, to be transported.
LUMP WORK, work contracted for, or taken by thelump.
LUMPERS, low thieves who haunt wharves and docks, and rob vessels; persons who sell old goods for new.
LUMPY, intoxicated.
LUNAN, a girl.—Gipsey.
LURK, a sham, swindle, or representation of feigned distress.
LURKER, an impostor who travels the country with false certificates of fires, shipwrecks, &c.
LUSH, intoxicating drinks of all kinds, but generally used for beer. TheGlobe, 8th September, 1859, says “LUSHand its derivatives claimLushington, the brewer, as sponsor.”
LUSH, to drink, or get drunk.
LUSH-CRIB, a public house.
LUSHINGTON, a drunkard, or one who continually soaks himself with drams, and pints of beer. Some years since there was a “Lushington Club” in Bow-street, Covent Garden.
LUSHY, intoxicated. Johnson says “opposite to pale,” so red with drink.
MAB, a cab, or hackney coach.
MACE, a dressy swindler who victimizes tradesmen.
MACE, to spunge, swindle, or beg, in a polite way; “give it him (a shopkeeper) on theMACE,”i.e., obtain goods on credit and never pay for them; also termed “striking theMACE.”
MADZA, half.Italian,MEZZA. This word enters into combination with various cant phrases, mainly taken from theLingua Franca, asMADZA CAROON, half-a-crown, two-and-sixpence;MADZA SALTEE, a halfpenny [seeSALTEE];MADZA POONA, half-a-sovereign;MADZA ROUND THE BULL, half-a-pound of steak, &c.
MAG, a halfpenny.—Ancient cant,MAKE.Meggswere formerly guineas.—B. M. Carew.
MAG, to talk. A corruption ofNAG.—Old; henceMAGPIE.
MAGGOTTY, fanciful, fidgetty. Whims and fancies were formerly termedMAGGOTS, from the popular belief that a maggot in the brain was the cause of any odd notion or caprice a person might exhibit.
MAGSMAN, a street swindler, who watches for countrymen and “gullable” persons.
MAHOGANY, “to have one’s feet under another man’sMAHOGANY,” to sit at his table, be supported on other than one’s own resources; “amputate yourMAHOGANY,”i.e., go away, or “cut your stick.”
MAIN-TOBY, the highway, or the main road.
MAKE, a successful theft, or swindle.
MAKE, to steal.
MAKE UP, personal appearance.—Theatrical.
MANG, to talk.—Scotch.
MARE’S NEST, a Cockney discovery of marvels, which turn out no marvels at all. An old preacher in Cornwall, up to very lately employed a different version, viz.: “a cow calving up in a tree.”
MARINATED, transported;—from the salt-pickling fish undergo in Cornwall.—Old cant.
MARINE, orMARINE RECRUIT, an empty bottle. This expression having once been used in the presence of an officer of marines, he was at first inclined to take it as an insult, until some one adroitly appeased his wrath by remarking that no offence could be meant, as all that it could possibly imply was, “one who had done his duty, and was ready to do it again.”—SeeHORSE MARINE.—Naval.
MARRIAGE LINES, a marriage certificate.—Provincial.
MARROWSKYING.—SeeMEDICAL GREEK.
MARYGOLD, one million sterling.—SeePLUM.
MASSACRE OF THE INNOCENTS, when the leader of the House of Commons goes through the doleful operation of devoting to extinction a number of useful measures at the end of the session, for want of time to pass them.—Vide Times, 20th July, 1859: Mr. C. Foster, on altering the time of the legislative sessions.—Parliamentary slang.
MATE, the term a coster or low person applies to a friend, partner, or companion; “me and myMATEdid so and so,”is a common phrase with a low Londoner.—Originally aSea term.
MAULEY, a signature, fromMAULEY, a fist; “put yourFISTto it,” is sometimes said by a low tradesman when desiring a fellow trader to put his signature to a bill or note.
MAULEY, a fist, that with which one strikes as with aMALL.—Pugilistic.
MAUND, to beg; “MAUNDERINGon the fly,” begging of people in the streets.—Old cant.Maung, to beg, is a term in use amongst theGipseys, and may also be found in theHindooVocabulary.Maund, however, is pureAnglo Saxon, fromMAND, a basket. Compare “beg,” which is derived fromBAG, a curious parallel.
MAW, the mouth; “hold yourMAW,” cease talking.
MAX, gin;MAX-UPON TICK, gin obtained upon credit.
M. B. COAT,i.e.,Mark of the Beast, a name given to the long surtout worn by the clergy,—a modern Puritan form of abuse, said to have been accidentally disclosed to a Tractarian customer by a tailor’s orders to his foreman.
MEALY-MOUTHED, plausible, deceitful.
MEDICAL GREEK, the slang used by medical students at the hospitals. At the London University they have a way of disguising English, described by Albert Smith as theGower-street Dialect, which consists in transposing the initials of words,e.g., “poke a smipe”—smoke a pipe, “flutter-by”—butterfly, &c. This disagreeable nonsense is often termedMARROWSKYING.—SeeGREEK, St. Giles’ Greek, or the “Ægidiac” dialect, Language ofZIPH, &c.
MENAGERY, the orchestra of a theatre.—Theatrical.
MIDDY, abbreviation ofMIDSHIPMAN.—Naval.
MIDGE NET, a lady’s veil.
MIKE, to loiter; or, as a costermonger defined it, to “lazy about.” The term probably originated at St. Giles’, which used to be thronged with Irish labourers (Mike being so common a term with them as to become a generic appellation for Irishmen with the vulgar) who used to loiter about the Pound, and lean against the public-houses in the “Dials” waiting for hire.
MILKY ONES, white linen rags.
MILL, a fight, orSET TO.Ancient cant,MYLL, to rob.
MILL, to fight or beat.
MILL, the treadmill, prison.
MILL-TOG, a shirt—most likely the prison garment.
MISH, a shirt, or chemise. FromCOMMISSION, theAncient cantfor a shirt, afterwards shortened toK’MISHorSMISH, and then toMISH.French,CHEMISE;Italian,CAMICIA.
“With his snowyCAMESEand his shaggy capote.”—Byron.
“With his snowyCAMESEand his shaggy capote.”—Byron.
MITTENS, fists.—Pugilistic.
MIZZLE, to run away, or decamp; to disappear as in a mist. FromMIZZLE, a drizzling rain; a Scotch mist.