Hay. To make hay, verb. phr. (University).—To throw into confusion; to turn topsy-turvy; to knock to pieces in argument or single combat. Also, to kick up a row.
1861. H. Kingsley, Ravenshoe, ch. vii. The fellows were mad with fighting too. I wish they hadn’t come here and made hay afterwards.
To dance the hay, verb. phr. (old).—See quot.
1690. B. E., Dict. Cant. Crew, s.v. To Dance the Hay. To make Hay while the Sun Shines, or make good use of one’s Time.
Hay-bag, subs. (thieves’).—A woman. [I.e., something to lie upon.] For synonyms, see Petticoat. Fr., une paillaisse.
1851–61. H. Mayhew, Lond. Lab. and Lond. Poor, Vol. I., p. 231, q.v.
Hay-band, subs. (common).—A common cigar. For synonyms, see Weed.
1864. Glasgow Herald, 9 Nov., q.v.
Haymarket-hector, subs. (old).—A prostitute’s bully. See Hector.
c. 1675. Marvell, Cutting of Sir John Coventry’s Nose, vi. O ye Haymarket Hectors!