Handseax. The Anglo-Saxon dagger.
Hanger, O. E. A small sword worn by gentlemen with morning dress in the 17th century.
Hangers or Carriages, O. E. Appendages to the sword-belt from which the sword hung, often richly embroidered or jewelled.
Hanselines (15th century). Loose breeches. (See Slop.)
Haphe, Gr. and R. (ἁφὴ i.e. a grip). The yellow sand with which wrestlers sprinkled themselves over after having been rubbed with oil. The object of this sprinkling was to enable the wrestlers to take a firmer grasp one of the other.
Hara, Gr. and R. A pig-sty, especially for a breeding sow. The term also denoted a pen for geese.
Hare, Chr. In Christian iconography the hare symbolizes the rapid course of life. Representations of this animal are met with on lamps, engraved stones, sepulchral stones, &c.
Harlequin (It. Harlequino, or little Harlay). The name is derived from that of a famous Italian comedian, who appeared in Paris in the time of Henri III., and from frequenting the house of M. de Harlay was so called by his companions. (Ménage.)
Harmamaxa, Gr. and R. (ἁρμ-άμαξα). A four-wheeled carriage or litter covered overhead, and enclosed with curtains. It was generally large, and drawn by four horses, and richly ornamented. It was principally used for women and children.
Harmonica. A musical instrument consisting of a number of glass cups fixed upon a revolving spindle, and made to vibrate by friction applied to their edges. These “musical glasses” are described in a work published in 1677. A harpsichord-harmonica is a similar instrument, in which finger-keys like those of a pianoforte are used. (See the article in Encyl. Brit., 8th edition.)