Michaelmas Term Glossary

Michaelmas Term Glossary

Shortyard

Jacobean colloquialism or slang term for "small penis" used in a derogatory way

Cockstone

Jacobean slang term meaning "testicle"

Pander

Impolite term for a person who caters to what other people want, but in an obsequious and crass kind of way. In Jacobean times, this was actually a role in the court or home of the upper classes. The "pander" was literally at the beck and call of the master of the house.

Beadle

The word "beadle" comes from the old English root word "bydel," meaning 'a person who makes a proclamation' The role usually involved a ceremonial job at a parish occasion

Gruel

A cross between grits and oatmeal, gruel was a watery and thoroughly unpleasant food given to the poor in Britain in Jacobean times

Wench

Young woman or girl, often lewd and a prostitute

Courtesan

A prostitute with wealthy or upper-class clients

Harlot

Promiscuous woman

Scrivener

A clerk, scribe or notary

Livery

special uniform worn by a servant or an official

Michaelmas

The feast of St. Michael, on September 29

Trinity

The Christian God-head as one God in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost

Hilary

Celebration of the Festival of St. Hilary which falls on January 13th

Tirewoman

a lady's maid

Gallant (noun)

a gallant is a man of honor, often a knight or a hero returning from war

Gullible

easily convinced or fooled

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