<hw>Dilli</hw>, later <hw>Dilly-bag</hw>, <i>n</i>. an aboriginal word, coming from Queensland, for a bag made either of grasses or of fur twisted into cord. <i>Dhilla</i> is the term for hair in Kabi dialect, Mary River, Queensland. <i>Dirrang</i> and <i>jirra</i> are corresponding words in the east of New South Wales. The aboriginal word <i>dilli</i> has been tautologically increased to <i>dilly-bag</i>, and the word is used by bushmen for a little bag for odds-and-ends, even though made of calico or holland.
1847. L. Leichhardt, `Overland Expedition,' p. 90:
"In their `dillis' (small baskets) were several roots or tubers."
Ibid. p. 195:
"A basket (dilli) which I examined was made of a species of grass."
1885. R. M. Praed, `Australian Life,' p. 34:
"I learned too at the camp to plait dilly-bags."
1890. Rolf Boldrewood, `Colonial Reformer,' c. xvii. p. 210:
"Mayboy came forward dangling a small dilly-bag."
1896. A.J. North, `Report of Australian Museum,' p. 26: