Norwich. So called from the castle erected by the East Anglian kings as a “North wic,” or northern fortified village, relative to Caistor, to resist the invasion of the Danes.
Norwood. This was formerly the northern portion of the vast wooded district situated between London and Croydon.
None of my Funeral. An American mode of saying “Nothing to do with me,” or “It’s no affair of mine.” Being an Americanism, the expression is devoid of etymology.
Nosey. The nickname borne by Cervetto, the violoncellist of Drury Lane Theatre, and John Wilson, the painter, both of whom had exceptionally long noses. The Duke of Wellington was also popularly referred to under this name by his soldiers on account of his Roman nose.
Nothing succeeds like Success. When a man is successful the world bows before him. Each fresh enterprise is crowned with success, because there is an abiding public faith in the man who has made money or hit the popular taste. His intrinsic merits may be no greater than those of the poor devil who has systematically failed; yet what he lacks himself he readily finds in his subordinates, whom he can afford to pay, while the credit is all his own.
Notions. An Americanism for small wares or trifles in regard to dress.
Not much. An Americanism for “of no consequence.”
Not quite the Cheese. A saying which originated with those who insisted on being served with prime Stilton or double Glo’ster.
Nottingham. Called by the Anglo-Saxons Snottengaham, “a place of caves.” The name is partly Celtic, and little doubt exists that the Britons made their habitations in the caverns with which this county abounds.
Nottingham Place. After the county estates of the Duke of Portland, the great ground landlord. A goodly portion of Sherwood Forest is included in this ducal possession.