Enlever sur la moustache, jusque sur la moustache de quelqu’un, Fr. To seize or take possession of any thing under the very nose, or in the presence of a person. Les ennemis sont venus pour défendre cette place, on la leur a enlevée sur la moustache. The enemy drew near to defend the town, but it was taken under their very whiskers.
Donner sur la Moustache, Fr. To give a slap on the face.
MOUTARDE, Fr. means literally mustard. The word, however, is frequently used by the French in a figurative sense, viz. S’amuser à la moutarde. To be uselessly employed, or busy about nothing. It is likewise used to express impatience: La moutarde lui monte au nez, Fr. The mustard rises in his nose, that is, he grows restless and impatient.
C’est de la Moutarde après diner, Fr. This expression is in general use among the French, and signifies, that assistance, &c. is brought when there is no longer need of it. When commissaries, &c. make up a lame account for monies received, it is common to say. Et le reste en moutarde.
MOUTH. See [Muzzle].
MOUTH of FIRE. The entrance into the garrison of Gibraltar by the grand battery and the old Mole, is so called by the Spaniards, on account of the formidable appearance of the ordnance from the lines.
MOUTONNIER, Fr. Sheep-like; gregarious.
MOUVEMENS de Tête, Fr. Motions of the head. For the English explanation of these motions, see [eyes]. The French express them in the following manner: Tête à droite, right dress.—Tête à gauche, left dress.—Fixe, front dress.
Mouvemens des troupes sous les armes, Fr. By these are understood the different changes of position, and the various facings which soldiers go through under arms.
Mouvemens de pied ferme, Fr. That exercise, consisting of the manual and facings, which a soldier performs, without quitting his original ground. The left foot on this occasion becomes a standing pivot.