Have, subs. (common).—1. A swindle; a take-in (q.v.); a do (q.v.). For synonyms, see Sell.
2. in. pl. (common).—The moneyed classes; as opposed to the Have-nots, their antipodes.
1893. National Observer, Feb. 25, ix., 357. A body whose policy is to make the Have-nots as comfortable and objectionable as possible at the cost in coin and comfort of the Haves.
3. (in. pl.) subs. (Winchester College).—Half-boots. Pronounced Hāves.
Is that a Catch or a Have? verb. phr. (vulgar).—A formula of acknowledgment that the speaker has been ‘had.’ [If the person addressed be unwise enough to answer with a definition, the instant retort is ‘Then you catch (or have, as the case may be) your nose up my arse.’]
Verb (colloquial).—1. To cheat; to take-in; to do. See Be.
1805. G. Harrington, New London Spy (4th Ed.) p. 26. Ten to one but you are had, a cant word they make use of, instead of saying, as the truth is, we have cheated him. [[281]]
1825. Egan, Life of an Actor, ch. iv. ‘He’s not to be had,’ said Gag, in an audible whisper.
1878. Hatton, Cruel London, bk. II., ch. v. ‘They have had me, bless you,’ said Brayford, ‘the men who have “limbed” you.’
1889. Licensed Vict. Gaz., 8 Feb. Not to be had so easily, my good man.