Tom, e.g., “after Tom,” after the hour at which Big Tom of Christchurch rings. At its last stroke the gates are closed, and undergrads entering after have to pay an increasing sum for each hour up to twelve. To be out after that involves an interview with the Master.—Oxford University.
Tom and Jerry shop, a low drinking shop. Probably some allusion to Pierce Egan’s famous characters in his Life in London. Generally contracted to Jerry shop.
Tom Toppers, a waterman, from a popular song, entitled, Overboard he vent.
Tom Tug, a waterman. From the small stage-play. Also rhyming slang for a flat, or rather a “mug.”
Tomboy, a hoyden, a rude romping girl.
Tombstone, a pawn-ticket—“In memory of” whatever has been pawned,—a well-known slang expression with those Londoners who are in the habit of following “my uncle.”
Tomfoolery, nonsense; trashy, mild, and innocuous literature.
Tom-fool’s colours, scarlet and yellow, the ancient motley. Occasionally, as a rhyme of quality suitable to the subject,
“Red and yellow,
Tom fool’s colour.”
A proposition is said to be TOM FOOL when it is too ridiculous to be entertained or discussed.