| 释义 |
† steeple fair Obs.
In sarcastic use, an imaginary fair or market for church livings.
The definition ‘a common fair or mart’ given in some Dicts. is based on a misunderstanding of quot. 1622.
1597Bp. Hall Sat. ii. v. 8 Thou seruile Foole: why couldst thou not repaire To buy a Benefice at Steeple-Faire? 16022nd Pt. Return fr. Parnass. iv. ii. 1764 Are not you the yong drouer of liuings..that haunts steeple faires. 1622J. Taylor (Water-P.) Water-Cormorant E 2 b, These youths [i.e. the ‘penny clarks’ of a ‘symonicall patron’], in Art, purse, and attire most bare Giue their attendance, at each steeple faire. 1624Bp. R. Montagu Immed. Addr. 44 To buy a Bishopricke, or Office, and dye soone after: or some other Preferment at Steeple-faire. |