Mahogany flats, subs. phr. (common).—Bed-bugs. For synonyms, see
Norfolk Howards.
Flats and Sharps, subs. phr. (old).—Weapons.
1818. Scott, Heart of Midlothian, ch. xxx. ‘I have known many a
pretty lad cut short in his first summer upon the road, because he
was something hasty with his flats and sharps.’
Flatten Out, verb. phr. (American).—To get the better of (in argument
or fight). For synonyms, see Floor. Flattened-out = ruined; beaten.
Flatter-trap, subs. (common).—The mouth. Fr., la menteuse, but for
synonyms, see Potato-trap.
1859. Matsell, Vocabulum, or Rogue’s Lexicon, s.v.
Flatty-ken, subs. (thieves’).—See quot.
1851–61. Mayhew, Lond. Lab. and Lond. Poor, vol. I., p. 261. Some
take up their abode in what they call flatty-kens, that is, houses
the landlord of which is not ‘awake’ or ‘fly’ to the ‘moves’ and
dodges of the trade.
Flawed, ppl. adj. (common).—1. Half drunk; ‘a little crooked’;
quick-tempered.—Grose. For synonyms, see Drinks and Screwed.