Drummers. An Americanism for commercial travellers, who are engaged in beating up trade.
Drunkard’s Cloak. A large wooden crinoline that hung from a drunkard’s neck to the ground, causing every bone in his body to ache owing to the weight resting on his shoulders. The instrument resembled an inverted flower pot, having a hole in the top for his head to be thrust through. Under this drastic treatment he soon became sober.
Drunk as a Fiddler. The fiddler was generally incapable of discoursing further music half way through the night’s jollification, because the dancers freely plied him with drink.
Drunk as a Lord. When George the Third was King, and long afterwards, the fine old English gentleman acted up to his character by using strong language and imbibing strong potations. To be “drunk as a lord” was the surest mark of gentility, and a “three bottle man” a pattern of sobriety. After dining it was considered no disgrace to roll helplessly under the table.
Drury Lane. From Drury House, the residence of Sir William Drury, temp. William III.
Dublin. From Dubh-linn, “black pool.”
Dub Up. An expression derived from the very general custom of dubbing or touching a man on the shoulder when arresting him for debt.
Ducat. Duke’s money, anciently struck in the Duchy of Apulia, Sicily.
Duchess Street. After Lady Cavendish, who became the wife of the second Duke of Portland.
Ducking Stool. An instrument for the punishment of scolding wives. This public ducking in a pond effectually served to cool their temper for the time being.