OUT ON THE LOOSE, “on the spree,” in search of adventures.
OUT ON THE PICKAROON. Picarone is Spanish for a thief, but this phrase does not necessarily mean anything dishonest, but ready for anything in the way of excitement to turn up; also to be in search of anything profitable.
OUT-SIDER, a person who does not habitually bet, or is not admitted to the “Ring.” Also, a horse whose name does not appear among the “favourites.”
OVER! or OVER THE LEFT, i.e., the left shoulder—a common exclamation of disbelief in what is being narrated,—implying that the results of a proposed plan will be “over the left,” i.e., in the wrong direction, loss instead of gain.
OWNED, a canting expression used by the ultra-Evangelicals when a popular preacher makes many converts. The converts themselves are called his “SEALS.”
P’s AND Q’s, particular points, precise behaviour; “mind your P’S AND Q’S,” be very careful. Originating, according to some, from the similarity of p’s and q’s in the hornbook alphabet, and therefore the warning of an old dame to her pupils; or, according to others, of a French dancing master to his pupils, to mind their pieds (feet) and queues (wigs) when making a bow.
PACK, to go away; “now, then, PACK off there,” i.e., be off, don’t stop here any longer. Old, “Make speede to flee, be PACKING and awaie.”—Baret’s Alvearie, 1580.
PAD, “to stand PAD,” to beg with a small piece of paper pinned on the breast, inscribed “I’m starving.”
PAD, the highway; a tramp.—Lincolnshire.
PAD THE HOOF, to walk, not ride; “PADDING THE HOOF on the high toby,” tramping or walking on the high road.