1794. Gent. Mag., p. 1085. [A Cambridge college servant is called a JIP.]
1803. Gradus ad Cantab., 128. To avoid gate-bills he will be out at night as late as he pleases, ... climb over the college wall, and fee his GYP well.
1842. Tait’s Mag., Oct., “Reminiscences of Coll. Life.” There is attached to colleges and halls a person more useful than ornamental, and better known than paid, whom Oxonians name GYP, from his supposed moral affinity to a vulture (γυψ). The same is in Dublin denominated a Skip, because of the activity which is an indispensable item in his qualifications.
1849. C. Kingsley, Alton Locke, ch. xii. I’ll send you in luncheon as I go through the butteries; then, perhaps, you’d like to come down and see the race. Ask the GYP to tell you the way.
1850. Smedley, Frank Fairleigh, p. 254. Fellow you call the GYP wanted to make me believe you were out—thought I looked too like a governor to be let in, I suppose.
1882. F. Anstey, Vice Versâ, ch. v. Who should we see coming straight down on us but a Proctor with his bull-dogs (not dogs, you know, but the strongest GYPS in the college).
Gyte, subs. (Royal High School, Edin.).—A first year’s student.
Habit, subs. (old University).—See quot.
1803. Gradus ad Cantabrigiam. Habit. College HABIT, College dress, called of old, livery: the dress of the Master, Fellows, and Scholars.