3. (common).—In pl., small flat curls worn on the temples; sixes
(q.v.).
Up to the knocker, phr. (common).—1. Completely equal to; also, perfect
in appearance, condition, fitness. Also see quot. 1870.
1844. Selby, London by Night, i. 2. Jack. How do you feel? Ned. Not
quite up to the knocker.
1864. Derby Day, p. 110. It’s a splendid turn out. Right up to the
knocker, as they say. I don’t do things by halves when I go out.
1870. Hazlewood & Williams, Leave it to Me, 1. Joe. If ever there
was anybody else first, you’re afore ’em. I ’dores you, to the
werry knocker and half-way up the passage.
1889. Sporting Times, 6 July. ‘I see here’s a house to let in
Toboggan Terrace, jest up by Sloane Street—how ’ud that suit us?’
‘Up to the bloomin’ knocker, Joey,’ replied Mrs. M.
1892. Milliken, ’Arry Ballads, 23. I’m up to the knocker, I tell
you.