Odd Zounds. A corruption of “God’s Wounds.” See “Zounds.”
Off Colour. To look pale and sickly.
Off the Hooks. An expression meaning “beyond hope of requisition for further service,” “completely done for,” whether on the score of chronic ill health, lunacy, or old age. This originally had reference to the Maypole stored away in Shaft Alley, Leadenhall Street, and perhaps other Maypoles elsewhere of post-Reformation days. As long as it rested “on the hooks” there was a likelihood of its being once more called into service. See “[St Andrew Undershaft].”
Ohio. Indian for “beautiful.”
O.K. This arose out of an Irishman’s endorsement for goods passed by him, as he would have spelt out the words “Orl Korrect.”
Old Bags. The nickname of Lord Eldon, because he always carried about with him, in separate brief bags, the cases on which he had to pass judgment.
Old Bailey. From the Latin ballium, a rampart, through the French baille. The term “Bailey” expressed the open space or court between a castle and the embattlements. Seeing that Lud Gate stood in line with this street at its southern extremity, there must have been a keep or fortification behind the Roman Wall where the Sessions House came to be built. The name was therefore retained after the wall was demolished.
Old Bold Fifth. The 5th Fusiliers, which regiment has distinguished itself for valorous deeds in many campaigns.
Old Bond Street. See “[Bond Street].”
Old Broad Street. With the exception of Cheapside, this was the widest thoroughfare in Old London, all the others being similar to what Old Change is at the present day. During Elizabeth’s reign Old Broad Street constituted the residence of the wealthiest citizens.