Morgue.So far from denoting a mortuary, this term really means the inner wicket of a prison, where the identification marks of new arrivals are taken before they have their cells and tasks assigned to them. It is therefore not incorrectly applied to the place of public examination and identification of the unknown dead.
Morisonians.A religious sect which separated from the Scottish Presbyterians in 1841, under the leadership of James Morison.
Mormons.A sect whose founder, Joseph Smith, claimed to have received a new revelation in “The Book of Mormon,” written on gold plates by the angel Mormon, the last of the Hebrew line of prophets, in 1827.
Mornington Crescent.After the Earl of Mornington, Governor-General of India, the brother of the Duke of Wellington.
Morocco.The territory of the Moriscoes or “Moors.”
Morris Dance.An ancient military dance of the Moriscoes or Moors of Spain introduced to England by John of Gaunt after his return from that country,temp.Edward III. Hence the companions of the “Jack in the Green” at the May Day festival always blackened their faces, and disported themselves in extravagant costumes, imitative of the flowing robes of the original dancers. See “Maid Marian.”
Mortimer Street.After Edward Harley, Earl of Wigmore and Mortimer, landlord of the estate in 1717.
Mosaics.So called because such inlaid work of stones was originally employed in the pavements of the temples of the Muses. The word is Frenchmosaique, derived from the same Greek root asMuseum.
Moscow.From the RiverMoskwa, on which the city was built.
Moselle.Wines produced at the vineyards on the banks of the French river of the same name.
Moslem.From the ArabicMuslim, “true believer,” throughSalama, “to submit.” This term expresses the plural of “Mussulman” among the Persians. By the Turks “true believers” are styled “Moslemin.” There is no such word as “Mussulmen” or “Mussulmans.”
Mosquito.From the Spanishmosca, a fly.
Mosquito Coast.A territory in Central America which, on account of its climate and the swampy nature of the land, is infested by mosquitoes.
Mothering Sunday.The Sunday in Mid-Lent when the members of a family in domestic service visit their parents and enjoy “Mothering Cakes” for tea. These cakes had their origin in offerings made to the “Mother Church” on the afternoon on this day.
Mother Black Cap.A public-house sign in Camden Town set up in opposition to the “Mother Red Cap” over the way. There never was a noted character of this name.
Mother of Believers.The name bestowed by Mohammedans upon Ayesha, the favourite wife of “The Prophet,” styled “The Father of Believers.” Mohammed himself declared that Ayesha was the only member of his family who cherished the slightest faith in his mission. His preference for his second wife, therefore, can be readily understood.
Mother of Presidents.Virginia, on account of the many Presidents which this state has given to the American Republic.
Mother of South-Western Statesmen.Tennessee, from the seventeen eminent Congressmen which this state has given to the Union.
Mother of States.Virginia, the pioneer British colony in the New World.
Mother Red Cap.An omnibus stage in Camden Town,the sign of which perpetuates the memory of a notorious London poisoner during the Commonwealth.
Mother Shipton.A noted hostelry at Haverstock Hill, built when the prophecies of this Welsh sorceress were the common talk of the day. Some of her less baneful predictions were actually verified; notably those as to ships ploughing the ocean without sails and vehicles careering along the road without horses. Is it possible that she had the motor car in her mind?
Moulin Rouge.Expresses the French for “Red Mill.”
Mound City.St Louis, on account of the numerous artificial mounds occupying its site at the time when the city was built.
Mountain.The extremists of the Democratic party in France during the Reign of Terror, so called because they occupied the elevated benches in the House of Convention.
Mountain Dew.An Irishman’s term for whisky, because it was often secretly distilled among the mountains in order to escape excise duty; hence the expression: “A drop o’ the cratur.”
Mount Street.On a natural mound the Parliamentary forces here erected a fort or bastion when the Royalists were expected to make an attack upon London from the west.
Mrs Grundy.A term expressive of the prudishness of the English character. It arose out of the line: “What will Mrs Grundy say?” in Thomas Morton’s drama, “Speed the Plough,” produced in 1798.
Mudlarks.The nickname of the Royal Engineers, whose function it is to throw up entrenchments.
Muff.This term was at first applied to an effeminate dandy who at one time, like the ladies, carried a muff to keep his hands warm in winter. This incapacitated him from defending himself with his sword against an unexpected attack at the hands of a street bully, and hence, as now, amuffwas easily taken advantage of, or likely to become a prey to the sharp-witted.
Muff Dogs.Small dogs carried by ladies in their muffs during the seventeenth century. A “muff dog” figures in an engraving by Hollar.
Mug.Slang for a man’s face. This arose out of the rude portraiture of Lord Shaftesbury or some other political celebrity which from the time of the Restoration to the middle of the eighteenth century adorned the yellow chinaware beer mugs at an alehouse, or Mug-House as it was called. These Mug-Houses were the first political clubs; out of them sprang the popular “Free and Easies” of modern times, and more recently the Music Halls.
Muggletonians.A religious sect headed by Ludovic Muggleton, a tailor, who proclaimed himself a prophet, in 1651.
Mugwump.An Indian word for “wise chief.” The Mugwumps of North America are the Democrats, whose political aims are above cliques or parties; therefore they refuse to be influenced by a “Caucus.”
Mulatto.From the Spanishmulato, a mixed breed, throughmulo, a mule, the offspring of a white and a Negro.
Mumm.A strong German beer named after Christian Mumme, who first brewed it.
Mummer.Slang for an actor. This old English term, derived from the Germanmumme, a mask, was applied to the performers in a Christmas masque or buffoonery.
Mummock.An Americanism for handle, disarrange, or play with--e.g.“Don’t mummock things about.” The word is really obsolete provincial English for “maul.”
Munich.From the Germanmonchen, monks. On the spot where the city stands some monks built a warehouse for the salt which they obtained in the neighbourhood. In the twelfth century Henry the Lion made thisVilla Minichen, as it was then called, into a mint, and a town grew up around it.
Munster Road.From Munster House, the residence of Melesina Schulenberg, created Duchess of Munster by George II.
Munster Square.In honour of the eldest son of William IV., created Earl of Munster.
Murphies.Potatoes, the chief articles of consumption among the Irish peasantry. This term is current also in America.
Muscadel.French and Italian wines, so called from the Italianmuscado, musk, nutmeg. Variants of this name are Muscatel and Muscadine.
Muscatels.Raisins exported from Muscat in the Gulf of Oman, Arabia.
Muscovy Duck.A corruption of “Musk duck,” a species larger than the common duck.
Mush.An Americanism for an umbrella.
Musical Comedy Artiste.The new pet name for a chorus girl.
Musical Small-Coal Man.The lifelong sobriquet of Thomas Britton of Aylesbury Street, Clerkenwell, where was his coal shed. He inaugurated Thursday evening concerts, that attracted fashionable enthusiasts from the West End. This worthy, though he earned his livelihood by crying small coals in the street, was a scholar, a musician, and a companion of gentlemen.
Muslin.Called by the FrenchMousseline, from Mosul in Asiatic Turkey, whence during the Middle Ages this fabric was sent to supply all the markets of Europe.
Muss.An Americanism for “mess,” used in the sense of a confusion or disorder. It is used also to imply a squabble or a reprimand--e.g.“I got into a dreadful muss this morning.”
Mussulman.See “Moslem.”
Muswell Hill.Properly “Mustwell Hill,” from the Latinmustus, fresh. On this hill there was discovered an ancient well of clear, fresh water, that belonged to the prior of St John’s Clerkenwell and Highbury, who had a dairy farm hereabouts.
Mutes.See “Undertaker.”
Mutoscope.A modern peep show, in which the figuresmove; living pictures, so called from the Latinmutatis, to change, and the Greekskopein, to view.
Myddleton Square.After Sir Hugh Myddleton, who at his own cost embarked upon the ruinous enterprise of constructing the New River from Chadwell in Hertfordshire, nearly forty miles distant, to London. One of the reservoirs occupies the enclosed portion of this square.
My Eye.An exclamation signifying “You dazzle me,” “You make me blink with astonishment.” Its American equivalent is briefly “My!”
My Lady Nicotine.The pretty name now generally applied to tobacco since the republication in book form of J. M. Barrie’s essays on smoking which originally appeared in theSt James’s Gazette. See “Nicotine.”
Mythology.From the Greekmuthos, a fable, andlogos, a discourse. This was essentially a religion built upon fable.
My Uncle.The popular designation of a pawnbroker. See “Uncle.”
Nailed.Slang for “caught,” in allusion to being pinned down by the captors. Also a thing seized and made off with; a punning reference to “driving” a nail.
Naked Possessor.The Far West description of the possessor of a piece of land for a long period without a legal title to it. He is the naked possessor because his title is not clothed in a set form of words recognised by the Courts of Law.
Nankeen.Cotton stuff originally made atNankin, in China.
Nankin.Expresses the Chinese for “Southern Capital.”
Nanny Goats.The nickname of the 23rd Foot on account of their regimental pet goat.
Nantes.A native brandy exported from Nantes in Brittany. The name is the Celtic for “valley.”
Nap.A game of cards, originally named after Napoleon I.
Naples.Called by the GreeksNeapolis, “New City.” The ancient name is better expressed when speaking of the inhabitants as “Neapolitans.”
Napoleon.A gold coin of France issued during the Consulate of Napoleon Bonaparte. This superseded the “Louis d’Or.”
Narcissus.This flower is fabled to have sprung up on the spot where the beautiful Grecian youth so called died of love-sickness.
Naso.The nickname given to Ovid on account of the length of his nose; hence “Ovidius Naso.”
Nassau Street.After the royal House of Nassau, to which William III., as Prince of Orange, belonged.
Natal.So called because the Portuguese navigator Vasco di Gama landed upon its shores on Christmas Day, or the Feast of the Nativity, 1498.
Nation.An Americanism for “damnation.”
National Democrats.Those in the United States whose principles are national as opposed to sect or party.
Navvy.Originally the name of a labourer employed in the construction of canals for inland navigation. An alehouse set up beside one of the earliest canals bore the sign of the “Navigation Inn,” and those who frequented it were calledNavigators. This term soon became shortened intoNavvies.
Nazarenes.Semi-converted Jews who, while nominally Christians, believed “Jesus of Nazareth” to be the long-promised Messiah, and still conformed to the rites and ceremonies prescribed by the Jewish law.
Nebraska.Indian for “water valley.” This fertile region is traversed by several shallow rivers.
Neckerchief.A kerchief for the neck. See “Handkerchief.”
Neckwear.An American term for neckties, scarves, or mufflers.
Needle in a Bottle of Hay.See “Bottle of Hay.”
Needle’s Eye.The postern gate in the wall of an Eastern city, so called because with some difficulty a camel is able to thread its way through it.
Negus.Hot spiced wine, originally concocted by Colonel Negus in the reign of Queen Anne.
Nemesis.From the goddess of vengeance, who bore this name.
Nepaul Paper.India paper made in the district of Nepaul, Northern India. The original India paper came from the Far East.
Nest Egg.The nucleus of a banking account, so called because if a china egg be placed in a hen’s nest it is an inducement for her to lay eggs of her own there. When a person has a trifle put by he is anxious to increase it.
Nestorians.A sect of heretics of the fifth century under Nestorius, Patriarch of Constantinople.
Netherlands.Literally the Low Countries, now comprised in the kingdom of Holland.
Netop.Indian for “my friend.” In saluting a friendly Indian a white in North America always makes use of this word.
Nevada.Spanish for “snowy,” in allusion to the snow-clad mountain ridges of this state.
New Amsterdam.The name given by the Dutch settlers to their colony at the mouth of the Hudson River, now “New York.”
New Bond Street.See “Bond Street.”
New Bridge Street.Leads to Westminster Bridge, opened in 1862. This name was chosen in contradistinction to Bridge Street, Blackfriars.
New Brunswick.On assuming its independence of Nova Scotia in 1784 this British colony was named after the House of Brunswick.
New Burlington Street.See “Burlington Street.”
Newcastle-under-Lyme.The name of the river on which the town stands is the Lyne, not the Lyme. To take the place of an ancient castle at Chesterton-under-Lyne a new castle was built in this neighbourhood, but of such a stronghold no vestige now remains.
Newcastle-upon-Tyne.Originally Moncaster or Monkchester, so called from a colony of monks on the site of a Roman camp. Robert, Duke of Normandy, the son of William the Conqueror, built a castle here for the defence of the town against the incursions of the Scots. This castle was afterwards rebuilt by William II.; whereupon the town assumed the title of Newcastle.
New Cavendish Street.See “Cavendish Square.”
New Compton Street.See “Compton Street.”
New Christians.Portuguese Jews of the fifteenth century who, having embraced Christianity under compulsion, secretly conformed to the Mosaic rites and ceremonies.
New Cross.The district which grew up around an old coaching-house, “The Golden Cross,” afterwards rebuilt, and renamed “The New Cross.”
New England.The collective name given to the six eastern states of the American Union--Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut--because the people are descended from the Puritans of England and Scotland, and therefore may be regarded as the only true “Yankees.”
Newfoundland.The name bestowed by Sebastian Cabot upon all the new land that he discovered, but now confined to this British possession.
Newfoundland Dog.A native breed of dog from Newfoundland.
Newgate Street.From the newest of the city gates, first alluded to in history in 1207. The gateway having for centuries been used for the confinement of debtors,it gave its name to the prison erected on its south side. The gloomy edifice which has been demolished within the last few years dated from 1782, after the burning of its predecessor by the Gordon rioters in 1780.
New Hampshire.This state having been granted to Captain John Mason, he in 1629 named it after his native county in England.
New Holland.The name given to what is now Australia by its Dutch settlers in 1606 after their Mother Country.
Newington.Expresses the new settlement in the meadow.
Newington Butts.The site of the archery butts in South London corresponding to those of Moorfields in the north.
Newington Causeway.This was the first road or causeway across the swampy fields of South London beyond the “Borough.”
New Jersey.In honour of Sir George Cartaret, the gallant defender of Jersey Island against the Parliamentary forces in 1664.
Newman Street.After the builder on the site.
New Orleans.The name given to the French settlement in the New World after the city in the Mother Country.
New Pye Street.See “New Way.”
New Scotland Yard.The new headquarters of the Metropolitan Police, occupying a site which has not the slightest connection with its name, and devoid of all historic interest further than that its foundations were laid for a Metropolitan Opera House, the building of which went no further. With the transference of the Police Department from “Scotland Yard” the old name was retained.
New Southgate.The modern residential district in the vicinity of the entrance to the enclosed hunting ground extending northward to Enfield, anciently known as Enfield Chase.
New Spain.The name given by Cortes to “Mexico.”
News-stand.An Americanism for a railway bookstall.
New Way.A modern extension of Old and New Pye Streets, named after Sir Robert Pye, who had his residence on its site.
New Woman.A term which came into vogue during the early days of the modern bicycling craze. The New Woman disported herself abroad in knickerbockers, and generally made herself ridiculous in the eyes of all sensible men. Latterly she has returned to the obscurity whence she sprang.
New York.Originally New Amsterdam. When taken from the Dutch in 1664 it received the name it now bears in compliment to the Duke of York, afterwards James II.
New Zealand.Named by the Dutch after their native Zeeland, or “Sea-land,” of the Low Countries.
Niagara.From the IndianOn-aw-garah, “the thunder of waters.”
Nicaragua.So called by Gil Gonzales de Avila in 1521, after a Haytian chief called Nicaro, who gave him a friendly reception on the shores of the lake, which also bears this name.
Nicholas Lane.After the wealthy banker, Sir Nicholas Throgmorton, who also gave his name to Throgmorton Street.
Nickel.An American five-cent piece, so called because it is coined out of nickel silver.
Nick of the Woods.The first word in this American designation is a corruption of “neck,” denoting a settlement or habitation in the wooded regions of the south-western states.
Nicotiana.The tobacco-producing regions of the United States. See “Nicotine.”
Nicotine.After Jean Nicot, who introduced tobacco, which he had purchased at Lisbon, into France in 1560.
Nigger.A corruption of Negro, which term is derived from the Latinniger, “black.”
Nightcap.Since everyone in the days of our grandfathers wore a nightcap, and fancied he could not go to sleep without one, so the modern substitute is a glass of spirits just before retiring, with a view to making him feel drowsy; hence such a drink is called a “nightcap.”
Nightingale.Literally a bird that sings in the night.
Nihilist.Originally a member of a Russian society whose members recognised no law save their own happiness. They sought to annihilate all ideas of God and government, as also of the rights of property. These ultra-Socialists sprang into existence in 1848.
Nimrod.Charles James Apperley, the sporting contributor toThe Quarterly Review, and author of “The Chase, The Turf, and The Road,” adopted this pseudonym after Nimrod, the son of Cush, who is mentioned in Genesis x. 9 as the “mighty hunter before the Lord.”
Nincompoop.A dull-witted person, so called from the Latin phrasenon compos mentis, “of unsound mind.”
Nine Days’ Wonder.Puppies and kittens remaining blind for nine days after birth, they are during this period a subject of much wonder to the young members of the household. A sensational event or a piece of public scandal arouses uncommon interest for a few days, and then it gradually subsides.
Nine Elms.From nine fine elm-trees on this portion of the south bank of the Thames.
Nine Tailors make a Man.The second word in this expression is a corruption ofTellers. A “Teller” was in olden times a stroke of the “passing bell” of the parish church. Three tellers gave warning of the death of a child, six of a woman, and nine of a man. As the parishioners counted the strokes they would say: “Nine tellers make a man.”
Ninny.Short for “Nincompoop.” In America this term is generally thought to be derived from “Pickaninny.”
Niphon.The native name of “Japan.”
Nipped in the Bud.While a flower is in the bud it may be destroyed by a mere nip of the fingers. Afterwards its leaves would have to be plucked separately. To curb mischief or a bad habit at the very commencement is therefore the easier plan.
Nipper.Originally in thieves’ slang a boy trained to pick purses and pockets, and nip off unobserved; hence the expression “A Young Nipper.”
Nitrate King.The sobriquet of the late Colonel J. T. North, who amassed a fortune by the nitrate industry in South America.
Nob.Short for “noble” or “nobleman.” From University slang the term has come to imply among the vulgar anyone of aristocratic pretensions.
Noctes Ambrosianæ.A characteristic feature ofBlackwood’s Magazinein its early days. This, “The Ambrosial Nights,” was contributed as a regular series by Professor Wilson, being for the most part the actual conversations of the author, John Gibson Lockhart, and Mr Blackwood at a small Edinburgh tavern kept by one Ambrose. Although Hogg, the Ettrick Shepherd, also figured in those dialogues, he was not present at the meetings.
Nocturne.A quiet, dreamy species of musical composition, suggestive, as its name denotes, of peaceful night.
Noddy.A kind of jaunting car peculiar to Dublin, so called because its jolting motion makes its riders nod their heads.
No Flies on me.An Americanism expressive of individual energy. The meaning is: “I am so active that no flies can ever settle on me.”
No Hat Brigade.Modern faddists who walk abroad bare-headed and shelter themselves against the elements under an umbrella.
Nonconformists.Those ministers of the Church of England who refused to subscribe or conform to the “Act of Conformity,” and thereby lost their livings. The term is now generally applied to all Dissenting congregations.
No Quarter.When the battle cry of “No Quarter,” consequent on an order, goes forth, no lives are spared by the victors. To give quarter means to spare the vanquished. This had its origin in ancient European warfare, when, by way of earning prize-money, a soldier refrained from dealing the death blow to a fallen foe on condition of receiving a quarter of the latter’s pay.
Norfolk.The northern of the two districts or counties on the east coast settled by the Angles, the north folk and south folk respectively.
Norfolk Howards.An excess of refinement has caused this term to be substituted for bugs. This originated in the action of Joshua Bugg of the Swan Tavern, Norwich, who by deed poll, as advertised inThe Times26th June 1862, changed his name to Norfolk Howard. In America all beetles are commonly styled bugs.
Norfolk Street.From the town house and grounds of the Howards, Dukes of Norfolk and Earls of Arundel and Surrey.
Norland Square.Built on the site of Norland House, the residence of one of the Drummonds, bankers of Charing Cross,temp.William IV.
Normandy.The country peopled by the Northmen or Danes.
Northampton.Anciently described as “Northavontown,” having been built on the north of the River Avon, now called the Nen.
North Audley Street.See “Audley Street.”
North Britain.Scotland. In conjunction with England and Wales it becomes Great Britain.
North Pole.A tavern sign in Wardour Street up at the time when Captain Parry’s Arctic Expedition was the common topic of interest.
North Star State.Minnesota, so called on account of its northern situation in the Union and the motto on its arms: “L’Etoile du Nord.”
Northumberland.The north-east portion of that vast tract of land described as “Northumbria,” because situated north of the River Humber under the Heptarchy.
Northumberland Alley.This name in Fenchurch Street is reminiscent of the original town house of the Dukes of Northumberland before they took up their residence at Charing Cross in 1607.
Northumberland Avenue.From Northumberland House, the town mansion of the Dukes of Northumberland, demolished in 1874 to make way for this fine broad thoroughfare.
Norton Folgate.A corruption of “Northern Falgate”; expressive of the fine barred gate leading from Bishopsgate without the city limits into the open fields.
Norway.Called in the native tongueNordrike, “the north kingdom.” This country was long thought to be wholly surrounded by water, on which account it received the name ofNordee, “north island.” This the Saxons modified inNorea, and later Norway.
Norwich.So called from the castle erected by the East Anglian kings as a “North wic,” or northern fortified village, relative to Caistor, to resist the invasion of the Danes.
Norwood.This was formerly the northern portion of the vast wooded district situated between London and Croydon.
None of my Funeral.An American mode of saying “Nothing to do with me,” or “It’s no affair of mine.” Being an Americanism, the expression is devoid of etymology.
Nosey.The nickname borne by Cervetto, the violoncellistof Drury Lane Theatre, and John Wilson, the painter, both of whom had exceptionally long noses. The Duke of Wellington was also popularly referred to under this name by his soldiers on account of his Roman nose.
Nothing succeeds like Success.When a man is successful the world bows before him. Each fresh enterprise is crowned with success, because there is an abiding public faith in the man who has made money or hit the popular taste. His intrinsic merits may be no greater than those of the poor devil who has systematically failed; yet what he lacks himself he readily finds in his subordinates, whom he can afford to pay, while the credit is all his own.
Notions.An Americanism for small wares or trifles in regard to dress.
Not much.An Americanism for “of no consequence.”
Not quite the Cheese.A saying which originated with those who insisted on being served with prime Stilton or double Glo’ster.
Nottingham.Called by the Anglo-SaxonsSnottengaham, “a place of caves.” The name is partly Celtic, and little doubt exists that the Britons made their habitations in the caverns with which this county abounds.
Nottingham Place.After the county estates of the Duke of Portland, the great ground landlord. A goodly portion of Sherwood Forest is included in this ducal possession.
Notting Hill.Properly “Knolton Barn Hill,” the ancient description of a manor of the De Veres, which in the time of Henry VIII. was held by Robert Fenroper, an alderman of the city of London.
Not worth a Dam.See “Don’t care a Dam.”
Not worth a Rap.A rap was an Irish copper coin issued early in the eighteenth century to supply a long-felt need for very small money. Nominally worth a halfpenny, its metal was so thin and base that itnever passed for more than a farthing. Its infinitesimal value consequently gave rise to this expression.
Not worth a Song.A song is worth nothing at all after its popularity has waned. The good old songs live on account of their intrinsic merits, but they were not pushed into public favour by adventitious methods at the time of publication. Those of our day are ground out of street pianos and sung everywhere for a brief season, then heard no more.
Nova Scotia.This name, expressive of “New Scotland,” was bestowed upon the island by Sir William Alexander, a Scotsman, to whom James I. granted a charter of colonisation in 1621.
Nova Zembla.From the SlavonicNowaja Zemlja, “new land.”
November.Fromnovem, nine, the ninth month of the Roman calendar when the year commenced with March.
Noyau.Expresses the French for the stone or nut of a fruit; hence the name given to a cordial flavoured with the kernel of the bitter almond or peach stone.
Nun.From the Italiannonna, a grandmother. Those who retired into convents originally were aged women. It was only in modern times that seminaries for girls were established in convents; this opened the way to maidens becoming deeply imbued with religious ideas and secluding themselves from the world by taking the veil.
Nunhead.From a tea garden and holiday resort known to Londoners as “The Nun’s Head” ever since the days of James I.
Nutcrackers.The 3rd Foot, so called because they boasted of having broken the heads of the Polish Lancers at the battle of Albuera.
Nutcrack Night.Another name for All Hallows’ Eve, when nuts are laid on the fire bars to crack, as a relic of an ancient kind of divination.
Nutmeg State.Connecticut, whose people were believed to manufacture wooden nutmegs for exportation.
Oak Apple Day.Another name for Royal Oak Day (29th May), when people formerly wore oak leaves or oak apples in their hats to commemorate the manner in which the partisans of Charles II. welcomed his return to England on his birthday, 1651. This was, of course, in allusion to his concealment in an oak-tree near Boscobel House, Shropshire, after the battle of Worcester, on 3rd September previous.
Oakley Square.After Oakley House, near Bedford, one of the country seats of the Duke of Bedford, the ground landlord.
Oaks Stakes.So called from a Lodge or Club-House built among the oaks by the Hunters’ Club, and afterwards converted into an inn, known as “Lambert’s Oaks,” after the name of its landlord.
Obiter Scripta.Latin for a thing written in passing, a note by the way.
Observants.The name borne by those monastic orders whose members adhere to the strict rule laid down by their pious founders in contradistinction to others styled “Conventuals,” who, like the secular clergy, take upon themselves the performance of parochial duties.
Obstropulous.A corruption of the word “obstreperous,” inclined to quarrelling.
Ocean Greyhound.A fast Atlantic steamer belonging to one of the great lines.
Octavo.A sheet of printing paper which, when folded and cut, makes eight leaves or sixteen pages.
October.The eighth month of the Roman calendar when the year began with March.
Octroi.The name given to a toll or tax levied uponmarket produce passing through the gates of a town. It comes from the Latinauctoritas, authority.
Odder.Colloquial for one who obtains a livelihood by doing odd jobs.
Oddfellows.This friendly society originated with five Manchester shoemakers who in 1812 were accustomed to meet after the day’s work. It having occurred to one of them how his family would fare if, through sickness, he should be unable to follow his occupation, and thinking it would be wise to make some provision against such a contingency, he proposed that each of them should subscribe a few pence weekly towards a common sick fund. The idea was at once taken up. They called themselves Oddfellows because they numbered five. Others soon joined the little society, and from these humble beginnings it grew into a powerful organisation.
Odd rot it.A perversion of the Crusaders’ curse: “God rot them!” meaning the Saracens, the enemies of Christianity.
Odds Bodkins.A perversion of “God’s Body,” in allusion to the Eucharist. This oath was not considered profane during the Ages of Faith.
Odds Fish.A favourite exclamation of Charles II. It was a corruption of “God’s Flesh,” or the Body of Christ.
Odds Splutter.A corruption of the Dutch oathGot’s plut, “God’s Blood,” introduced into England during the reign of William III.
Odd Zounds.A corruption of “God’s Wounds.” See “Zounds.”
Off Colour.To look pale and sickly.
Off the Hooks.An expression meaning “beyond hope of requisition for further service,” “completely done for,” whether on the score of chronic ill health, lunacy, or old age. This originally had reference to the Maypole stored away in Shaft Alley, Leadenhall Street, and perhaps other Maypoles elsewhere of post-Reformationdays. As long as it rested “on the hooks” there was a likelihood of its being once more called into service. See “St Andrew Undershaft.”
Ohio.Indian for “beautiful.”
O.K.This arose out of an Irishman’s endorsement for goods passed by him, as he would have spelt out the words “Orl Korrect.”
Old Bags.The nickname of Lord Eldon, because he always carried about with him, in separate brief bags, the cases on which he had to pass judgment.
Old Bailey.From the Latinballium, a rampart, through the Frenchbaille. The term “Bailey” expressed the open space or court between a castle and the embattlements. Seeing that Lud Gate stood in line with this street at its southern extremity, there must have been a keep or fortification behind the Roman Wall where the Sessions House came to be built. The name was therefore retained after the wall was demolished.
Old Bold Fifth.The 5th Fusiliers, which regiment has distinguished itself for valorous deeds in many campaigns.
Old Bond Street.See “Bond Street.”
Old Broad Street.With the exception of Cheapside, this was the widest thoroughfare in Old London, all the others being similar to what Old Change is at the present day. During Elizabeth’s reign Old Broad Street constituted the residence of the wealthiest citizens.
Old Buffer.The colloquial term for a short, thick-set elderly man, whose big paunch suggests a railway buffer.
Old Bullion.See “Bullion State.”
Old Burlington Street.See “Burlington Street.”
Old Carthusians.Old scholars of the “Charter House.”
Old Catholics.The followers in Germany of the late Dr Döllinger, who separated from the Roman CatholicCommunion after the promulgation of the dogma of Papal Infallibility in 1870.
Old Cavendish Street.See “Cavendish Square.”
Old Change.So called from “The King’s Exchange,” where the bullion was anciently stored prior to being sent to the shearers or clippers at the neighbouring Mint. See “Sermon Lane.”
Old Charlies.See “Charlies.”
Old Christmas Day.Twelfth Day, because, according to the old style calendar, Christmas Day fell on what is now 6th January.
Old Compton Street.See “Compton Street.”
Old Dominion.Virginia, on account of its documentary description, “the Colony and Dominion of Virginia.”
Old England.This term was first applied to the Mother Country after the colonisation of New England in North America.
Old Fogey.A term derived from the Danishfjog, a stupid old man, one in his dotage.
Old Fox.The sobriquet of Marshal Soult on account of his strategic cunning.
Old Grog.The nickname of Admiral Edward Vernon, who always wore a grogramcloakcloakin foul weather.
Old Harry.A corruption of “Old Hairy,” as applied to the Devil.
Oldham.Expresses the old home or settlement.
Old Hat.A country tavern sign which must have been the original when the same premises was devoted to some other business, in days characterised by the display of signs by tradesmen generally.
Old Hickory.“Hickory” is an Americanism used adjectively for anyone who is tough, obstinate, or hard, after the tree of the same name. General Andrew Jackson merited the nickname of “Old Hickory” from his own soldiers on account of his tough, unyielding disposition. Its origin is thus explained by Parton,the author of the President’s “Life”: “The name of ‘Old Hickory’ was not an instantaneous inspiration, but a growth. First of all, the remark was made by some soldier, who was struck with his commander’s pedestrian powers, that the General was tough. Next it was observed that he was as tough as hickory. Then he was called ‘Hickory.’ Lastly, the affectionate ‘Old’ was prefixed, and the General thenceforth rejoiced in the completed nickname, usually the first-won honour of a great commander.”
Old Jewry.The original Jewish quarter of the city of London. See “Jewin Street.”
Old Kent Road.The South London portion of the Roman highway to Dover.
Old Lady of Threadneedle Street.The popular name of the Bank of England. There is a tradition that towards the end of the eighteenth century a demented old lady wandered up and down Threadneedle Street day by day for a long period until she suddenly disappeared. It was generally assumed that this old lady of Threadneedle Street must have been waiting for someone who had passed into the Bank, and, according to her idea, never came out again. When, therefore, in 1797 the Bank threatened a temporary stoppage of payment, and one-pound notes were issued, John Gilray, the artist, published a caricature entitled “The Old Lady of Threadneedle Street in Danger.” Since that time the Bank has been colloquially referred to by this title.
Old Line State.Maryland, whose famous regiment, the Old Maryland Line, saved the prestige of the army when Lord Cornwallis’s Grenadiers broke the American lines at Loughland.
Old North State.North Carolina, from its relative position to South Carolina.
Old Paulines.Old scholars of St Paul’s School.
Old Pye Street.See “New Way.”
Old Quebec Street.Laid out and built upon soon after the capture of Quebec by General Wolfe in 1759.
Old Rep.Short for “Old Reprobate.”
Old Rowley.A sobriquet of Charles II., from the name of his favourite race-horse.
Old Rye.A United States term for old whisky distilled from rye.
Old Salt.An old sailor who has sniffed the brine of the ocean from his youth.
Old Scotland Yard.See “Scotland Yard.”
Old Soldiers.An Americanism for cigar-ends, because they are the remnants of the originals that have done good service.
Old Sport.An Americanism for a broken-down gambler.
Old Tom.The name first given to gin by Thomas Norris, who, after having long been employed in the distillery of Messrs Hodges, opened a gin palace in Covent Garden, and perpetuated the affectionate name of “Old Tom Chamberlain,” his former master.
Old Toughs.The nickname of the 103rd Foot, merited during the Indian Mutiny.
Old Woman.In stage parlance an actress who plays old women’s parts. A fine distinction is, however, drawn between “old women” and what are called “Aristocratic Old Women.”
On the Tapis.Tapisis French for a carpet; expressive also of the cloth or kind of tapestry which covered the table in the Council Chamber when French was the language spoken at the English Court.
On the Tenterhooks.To have one’s curiosity fully aroused; on the tiptop of expectation. The phrase has been derived from the mode of tentering or stretching cloth upon hooks after it is woven.
On the Tiptoe of Expectation.A phrase derived from the crowds awaiting a public procession. As soon as the music is heard everyone stands on tiptoe, and looks in the direction whence the sounds proceed.
Oof.A slang term for “money”; derived from thelegendary “Oof Bird,” which from the Latin,ovum, an egg, traces its origin to the goose with the golden eggs.
Olive Branches.A man’s children are so designated from the Biblical simile in Psalm cxxviii. 3: “Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table.”
Olla Podrida.A Spanish term for a mixture of meat and vegetables collected in a common pot for cooking as required. In a literary sense it signifies a miscellany of short productions. The French equivalent for the term ispot-pourri, which is also employed figuratively.
Omnibus.The dative Latin plural ofomnes, all. In a public vehicle of this kind there is room for many, without class distinction.
One-horse.A term used adjectively for anything mean or insignificant. This figure of speech is derived from agriculture.
Oneida.Indian for “people of the beacon stone.”
Ontario.From the IndianOnontae, which expresses “the village on the mountain,” whence the tribe of the Onondagas derive their name.
On this Side of Jordan.An Americanism for “in this life” or “in this world.”
Opal.From the Sanskritopula, through the Latinopalus, a precious stone.
Oporto.Portuguese for “the harbour.”
Orange Lilies.The 35th Foot, so called on account of the facings on their uniform.
Orangemen.The Protestants in the northern provinces of Ireland, so called on account of their adherence to William III., Prince of Orange, in opposition to the “Jacobites” or the adherents of the Stuart king, James II.
Orange Peel.One of the nicknames of Sir Robert Peel, owing to his strong anti-Catholic spirit. See “Orangemen.”
Orange River.This, the largest river in South Africa, received its name from the colour of its waters when in flood.
Orange River Free State.This name was given by the “Boers” to what is now British territory in South Africa because its early settlers were also emigrants from the principality of Orange in Holland. Its new title is the Orange River Colony.
Orange Street.In compliment to William III., Prince of Orange.
Orator Henley.The sobriquet of John Henley, an English divine who in 1726 attracted large and fashionable congregations in a so-called “Oratory” or chapel in Newport Market.
Oratorio.A term derived from the fact that the first sacred musical dramas or cantatas were performed in the Church of the Oratorians, which religious Order was founded by St Philip Nero at Rome in 1540.
Orchard Street.Off Portman Square, after Orchard Portman, one of the country seats of the Portmans in Somersetshire. At Westminster, from the ancient orchard belonging to the Abbey.
Orchestra.A Greek term applied to the place in the theatre allotted to the chorus of the dancers. Among the moderns it expresses the place assigned to the instrumentalists.
Orchid.From the Greekorchis, a testicle, which the root of this plant resembles.
Oregon.From the SpanishOregano, “wild majorum,” which grows abundantly in this state.
Orellana.The original name of the “Amazon” River, after its navigator.
Oriel College.This college at Oxford was built in 1326 by Adam de Brome, the Almoner of Edward II., and called by him St Mary’s College. A few years later Edward III. added to its revenues a rich messuage hardby known as “Le Oriel,” from which circumstance the foundation received the name which it now bears.
Orinoco.Indian for “coiling snake.”
Orion Horne.One of the sobriquets of Richard Horne, author of “Orion,” which acquired an exceptional notoriety on account of its being published at the low price of one farthing.
Orkney Isles.Under the name ofOrcadesthese are mentioned by the ancient geographers.Orkneyis Gaelic for “Isle of Whales.”
Orleans.A corruption ofAureliani, after the Roman Emperor Aurelian.
Orloff Diamond.This gem, weighing 194 carats, and purchased by Catherine II. of Russia in 1775, preserves the family name of that Empress.
Orme Square.After the name of a printseller of Bond Street who bought the land and built upon it.
Orrery.After the Earl of Orrery, who first caused one to be made.
Osnaburg Street.Named in compliment to Frederick, Duke of York and Albany, the last sovereign-bishop of Osnaburg in Hanover.
Ossulton Street.See “Lisson Grove.”
Ostend.Literally the east end of Flanders in Belgium.
Ostler.From the Frenchhostelier, an innkeeper.
Oswestry.A corruption of Oswaldstry, the “place of Oswald,” where Oswald, King of Northumbria, was slain in 642. Evidence of this is afforded by the original name of Oswald’s Well, which yields a spring of pure water.
Ottawa.Expresses the Indian for “traders.”
Ottoman Empire.That of the Turks, founded by Othman I. at the commencement of the fourteenth century.
Ouida.The pseudonym of Louise de la Ramée. This was suggested to her at the very commencement of her literary career by the infantile perversion of Louise into “Ouida.”
Ouse.From the Celticuisg, water.
Out of Collar.Out of harness and the working habit. A horse has the collar slipped over its neck when put to work.
Out of Sorts.A technical phrase in the printing trade. “Sorts” are the different sizes and kinds of type used by a compositor. At times he runs short of “sorts,” so that the composition of the particular work in hand has to be suspended until the required sorts are obtained, either by distributing old matter put up in paper or sending to the typefounder’s for a new supply. Hence a person indisposed for work confesses to being “out of sorts.”
Ovidius Naso.See “Naso.”
Oxford.Cited in Domesday Book asOxeneford. Literally a ford for the passage of oxen across the River Isis.
Oxford Blues.The Royal Horse Guards, from their dark blue uniforms and the circumstance that this regiment of horse was first raised by Aubrey, Earl of Oxford, soon after the Restoration.
Oxford Movement.The great Catholic revival in England, which, midway in the last century, resulted in the passing over of many of the most eminent Oxford scholars to the Church of Rome.
Oxford Street.After Edward Harley, Earl of Oxford and Mortimer, landlord of the estate north of this principal thoroughfare.
Oyez, Oyez.The old French ceremonial exclamation (“Hear ye, hear ye!”) to enjoin silence. This obtained in our own country when French was the language of the Court. In modern times it has been corrupted by Court criers and town bellmen into “O yes, O yes.”
Oyster Part.In theatrical parlance a part which contains only one line or speech; like an oyster, the actor opens his mouth but once.