| 释义 |
† ˈlimberˌham Obs.
[f. limber a. + ham.
The quot. from Wycherley shows that Dryden did not, as is generally supposed, invent the name; whether Wycherley invented it, or whether it was already current as an appellative or a nickname, remains at present uncertain.]
a. In etymological sense: One who has ‘limber hams’, a supple-jointed person; fig. an obsequious person, ‘lackey’.
b. A character like that represented in Dryden's play, a ‘kind keeper’.
[1675Wycherley Country-wife ii. 27 There can be no more scandal to go with him, than with Mr. Tatle, or Master Limberham. Lad. With that nasty Fellow! no—no. 1678Dryden Limberham (1680) Pers. Dram., Limberham, a tame, foolish keeper, perswaded by what is last said to him, and changing next word.] 1689Hickeringill Ceremony-monger i. Wks. 1716 II. 390 If I were a Papist..I profess I would bow and cringe as well as any Ecclesiastical Limber-ham of them all. a1704T. Brown Praise Poverty Wks. 1730 I. 99 He's a true limberham, a prodigal cully to the jilt he keeps for the use of the public. 1755Smollett Quix. (1803) IV. 251 When the challenger was asked how the weight of both should be made equal, he insisted on the other's carrying the difference in bars of iron, by which means, Limberham would be upon a footing with Loggerhead. 1756–66T. Amory Buncle IV. xiii. §3. 249 She lives..to ruin..the miserable man, who is dunce enough to become a Limberham to the execrable wretch. |