Morris Dance. An ancient military dance of the Moriscoes or Moors of Spain introduced to England by John of Gaunt after his return from that country, temp. Edward III. Hence the companions of the “Jack in the Green” at the May Day festival always blackened their faces, and disported themselves in extravagant costumes, imitative of the flowing robes of the original dancers. See “[Maid Marian].”
Mortimer Street. After Edward Harley, Earl of Wigmore and Mortimer, landlord of the estate in 1717.
Mosaics. So called because such inlaid work of stones was originally employed in the pavements of the temples of the Muses. The word is French mosaique, derived from the same Greek root as Museum.
Moscow. From the River Moskwa, on which the city was built.
Moselle. Wines produced at the vineyards on the banks of the French river of the same name.
Moslem. From the Arabic Muslim, “true believer,” through Salama, “to submit.” This term expresses the plural of “Mussulman” among the Persians. By the Turks “true believers” are styled “Moslemin.” There is no such word as “Mussulmen” or “Mussulmans.”
Mosquito. From the Spanish mosca, a fly.
Mosquito Coast. A territory in Central America which, on account of its climate and the swampy nature of the land, is infested by mosquitoes.
Mothering Sunday. The Sunday in Mid-Lent when the members of a family in domestic service visit their parents and enjoy “Mothering Cakes” for tea. These cakes had their origin in offerings made to the “Mother Church” on the afternoon on this day.
Mother Black Cap. A public-house sign in Camden Town set up in opposition to the “Mother Red Cap” over the way. There never was a noted character of this name.