Capers, dancing, frolicking; “to cut CAPER-SAUCE,” i.e., to dance upon nothing—be hanged. Old thieves’ talk.
Capper-Clawing, female encounter, where caps are torn and nails freely used. Sometimes it is pronounced CLAPPER-CLAW. The word occurs in Shakspeare, Troilus and Cressida, act v. sc. 4.
Caravan, a railway train, especially a train expressly chartered to convey people to a prize fight.
Caravansera, a railway station. In pugilistic phraseology a tip for the starting point might have been given thus. “The SCRATCH must be TOED at sharp five, so the CARAVAN will start at four from the CARAVANSERA.”
Carboy, a general term in most parts of the world for a very large glass or earthenware bottle.
Card, a character. “A queer CARD,” i.e., an odd fish.
Cardinal, a lady’s red cloak. A cloak with this name was in fashion in the year 1760. It received its title from its similarity in shape to one of the vestments of a cardinal. Also mulled red wine.
Cardwell’s Men, officers promoted in pursuance of the new system of non-purchase.
Carney, soft hypocritical language. Also, to flatter, wheedle, or insinuate oneself.—Prov.