Vulgar words in Notes and Queries, Number 19, March 9, 1850 (Page 1)
This book at a glance
|
~ ~ ~ Sentence 422 ~ ~ ~
"Poor John," from being so long "Jack among his familiars," has been most scurvily treated, being employed to form sundry very derogatory compounds, such as, Jackass, Jackpudding, Jack-a-dandy, Jackanapes, Jack-a-lent, Jack o' oaks (knave of clubs), Jack-o' th' Lantern, &c. &c. Might not "Jack" have been derived from John, somewhat after the following fashion:--Johan--Joan--Jan--Janchen or Jankin.