PIG, or SOW’S BABY, a sixpence.
PIG, a mass of metal,—so called from its being poured in a fluid state
from a sow, which see.—_Workmen’s term._
PIG AND TINDER-BOX, the vulgar rendering of the well-known tavern sign,
“_Elephant and Castle_.”
PEPPER-BOXES, the buildings of the Royal Academy and National Gallery,
in Trafalgar-square. The name was first given by a wag, in allusion to
the cupolas erected by Wilkins, the architect, upon the roof, and which
at a distance suggest to the stranger the fact of their being enlarged
PEPPER-BOXES, from their form and awkward appearance.—_See_ BOILERS.
PIGEON, a gullible or soft person. The _French_ slang, or _argot_, has
the word PIGEON, dupe—“PECHON, PESCHON DE RUBY, apprenti gueux, enfant
(sans doute dérobé).” The vagabonds and brigands of Spain also use the
word in their _Germania_, or _Robbers’ Language_, PALOMO (pigeon),
ignorant, simple.
PIGEON, or BLUEY CRACKING, breaking into empty houses and stealing lead.
PIG-HEADED, obstinate.
PIG’S WHISPER, a low or inaudible whisper; also a short space of time,
synonymous with COCKSTRIDE, _i.e._, _cock’s tread_.
PIKE, to run away.
PIKE, a turnpike; “to bilk a PIKE,” to cheat the keeper of the
toll-gate.
PILL, a doctor—_Military_. PILL-DRIVER, a peddling apothecary.
PIN, “to put in the PIN,” to refrain from drinking. From the ancient
peg tankard, which was furnished with a row of PINS, or pegs, to
regulate the amount which each person was to drink. A MERRY PIN, a
roisterer.
PINCH, to steal, or cheat; also, to catch, or apprehend.