18[?]. T. R. Oliphant, Eton College.... It is very hard to define exactly what is meant by a SWELL at Eton; but it usually implies a boy who, brought into notice either by athletic prowess or scholarship, or high standing in the school, by this means becomes acquainted with the leading members of the school, and is found on acquaintance to develop considerable social qualities, which make him hand and glove with all the Eton magnates.
2. (Rugby).—The word SWELL (says Mr. Lees Knowles) had an indefinite, but well understood, meaning in the school. A member of the school “twenty,” or “fifteen” as it is now, or a member of the eleven, was, for instance, a SWELL.
Verb (Winchester).—To bathe; to wash.
Swells, subs. (Winchester).—Sunday services; Saints’-days, &c. [When surplices were worn.]
Swift’s. See Planks.
Swill, verb (Shrewsbury).—To take a shower-bath; also (Winchester) to wash by throwing water over the body.
1881. Felstedian, Nov., p. 75, “A Day’s Fagging at Winchester.” Having taken out the washing-stool, I proceed to call the Senior Præfect; when he gets up I have to SWILL him (i.e. pour a can of water over his back in his bath), and then rub him down with a towel.
Swinger, subs. (Charterhouse).—A box on the ears. Cf. Swinge = to lash, to beat. Also SWINGE as verb.
1579. Mariage of Witt and Wisdome. O, the passion of God! so I shalbe SWINGED; So, my bones shalbe bang’d! The poredge pot is stolne: what, Lob, I say, Come away, and be hangd!
1611. Cotgrave, Dict., s.v. Dober. To beat, SWINGE, lamme, bethwacke.