Gallivant, to wait upon the ladies.—Old.
Gallows, or GALLUS, very, or exceedingly—an unpleasant exclamation; “GALLOWS poor,” very poor. Term originally applied to anything bad enough to deserve hanging.
Gallows bird, an incorrigible thief; often applied to denote a ruffian-like appearance.
Gallowses, in the North of England a pair of braces.
Gally-yarn, a sailor’s term for a hoaxing story. He expresses disbelief by saying only “G. Y.”
Galoot.—See [GEELOOT].
Galore, abundance. Irish, GO LEOR, in plenty.
Gamb, a leg. Still used as an heraldic term, as well as by thieves, who probably get it from the Lingua Franca. Italian, GAMBA; French, JAMBE, a leg.
Game, a term variously applied; “are you GAME?” have you courage enough? “what’s your little GAME?” what are you going to do? “come, none of your GAMES,” be quiet, don’t annoy me; “on the GAME,” out thieving. To “play the GAME” is among sporting men to do a thing thoroughly and properly.
Game leg, a lame or wounded leg.