Draw it mild. Originally a tavern phrase, when anyone preferred ordinary ale to hot spiced liquor.
Draw the Long Bow. In allusion to the exaggerated skill of the English archers prior to the introduction of gunpowder.
Dress Circle. That portion of a theatre which, before the introduction of stalls, was set apart for the superior sections of the audience.
Dressed up to the Knocker. To the extreme height of his resources. Before the establishment of the modern police system door knockers were placed as high as possible to prevent them from being wrenched off by sportive wags after nightfall.
Dresser. The kitchen sideboard, on which the meat was dressed before serving it up in the dining-chamber. The collection of cups, plates, and dishes which distinguishes a dresser originally had a place on a wide shelf or board over this meat dresser; hence cup-board.
Drinks like a Fish. Ready to swallow any quantity of liquor that may be offered. A great many fish have their mouths wide open whilst swimming.
Drive a Bargain. An expression meaning to knock down the original price asked, in punning allusion to “driving” a nail.
Drop o’ the Crater. See “[Mountain Dew].”
Druid. In the Celtic Derwydd, derived from dewr, oak, and gwydd, knowledge. A priest who worshipped and offered sacrifices under an oak.
Drum. The name for a fashionable evening party of bygone days, from the noise made by the card players.