1820. Scott, The Abbot, ch. xiv. ‘And now, my mates,’ said the Abbot of Unreason, ‘once again digut your gabs and be hushed—let us see if the Cock of Kennaguhair will fight or flee the pit.’
1890. Rare Bits, 12 Apr., p. 347. ‘Clap a stopper on your gab and whack up, or I’ll let ’er speak!’
2. (vulgar).—Talk; idle babble. Also Gabb, Gabber, and Gabble.
1712. Spectator, No. 389. Having no language among them but a confused gabble, which is neither well understood by themselves or others.
1811. Poole, Hamlet Travestied, I., 3. Then hold your gab, and hear what I’ve to tell.
1863. C. Reade, Hard Cash, ch. xxxiv. ‘Hush your gab,’ said Mr. Green, roughly.
1887. Punch, 10 Sept., p. 111. Gladstone’s gab about ‘masses and classes’ is all tommy rot.
Verb. (vulgar: O. E., and now preserved in Gabble).—To talk fluently; to talk brilliantly; to lie.
1383. Chaucer, Canterbury Tales 1652. I gabbe nought, so have I joye or blis.
1402. [? T. Occleve], Letter of Cupid, in Arber’s Garner, vol. IV., p. 59. A foul vice it is, of tongue to be light, For whoso mochil clappeth, gabbeth oft.