Fresher, subs. (University).—An undergraduate in his first term.
Freshers. The Freshers, subs. (University).—That part of the Cam which lies between the Mill and Byron’s Pool. So called because it is frequented by freshmen (q.v.).
Freshman (or Fresher), subs. (University).—A University man during his first year. In Dublin University he is a junior freshman during his first year, and a senior freshman the Second year. At Oxford the title lasts for the first term. Ger., Fuchs.
1596. Nashe, Saffron Walden, in wks. iii., 8. When he was but yet a freshman in Cambridge.
1611. Middleton, Roaring Girl, Act iii., Sc. 3. S. Alex. Then he’s a graduate. S. Davy. Say they trust him not. S. Alex. Then is he held a freshman and a sot.
1767. Colman, Oxonian in Town, ii., 3. And now I find you as dull and melancholy as a freshman at college after a jobation.
1841. Lever, Charles O’Malley, ch. xiv. ‘This is his third year,’ said the Doctor, ‘and he is only a freshman, having lost every examination.’
1891. Sporting Life, 20 Mar. The mile, bar accidents, will be a gift to B. C. Allen, of Corpus, who has more than maintained the reputation he gained as a fresher.
Adj. (University).—Of, or pertaining to, a freshman, or a first year student.
Freshmanship, subs. (old).—Of the quality or state of being a freshman.