Austral English / A dictionary of Australasian words, phrases and usages with those aboriginal-Australian and Maori words which have become incorporated in the language, and the commoner scientific words that have had their origin in Australasia - Edward Ellis Morris

<hw>Officer Plant</hw>, n. another name for Christmas-Bush (q.v.), so called "because of its bright red appearance." (Maiden, p. 404.)

<hw>Old Chum</hw>, n. Not in common use: the opposite to a new chum.

1846. C. P. Hodgson, `Reminiscences of Australia,' p. 366:

"`New chum,' in opposition to `old chum.' The former `cognomen' peculiarizing [sic] the newly-arrived emigrant; the latter as a mark of respect attached to the more experienced colonist."

<hw>Old Hat</hw>, a Victorian political catch-word.

1895. `The Argus,' May 11, p. 8, col. 3:

"Mr. Frank Stephen was the author of the well-known epithet `Old Hats,' which was applied to the rank and file of Sir James M'Culloch's supporters. The phrase had its origin through Mr. Stephen's declaration at an election meeting that the electors ought to vote even for an old hat if it were put forward in support of the M'Culloch policy."

<hw>Old Lady</hw>, n. name given to a moth, Erebus Pluto.

<hw>Old Man</hw>, n. a full-grown male Kangaroo. The aboriginal corruption is Wool-man.

1827. P. Cunningham, `Two Years in New South Wales,' vol. ii. p. 160: