flibbergib

English

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ˈflɪbə(ɹ)d͡ʒɪb/

Noun

flibbergib (plural flibbergibs)

1. (obsolete, humorous) A sycophant.
   • 1549 March 25 (Gregorian calendar), Hughe Latymer [i.e., Hugh Latimer], Augustine Bernher, compiler, “[27 Sermons Preached by the Ryght Reuerende Father in God and Constant Matir of Iesus Christe, Maister Hugh Latimer, […].] The Second Sermon of Maister Hughe Latimer, which He Preached before King Edward [VI].”, in Certayn Godly Sermons, Made uppon the Lords Prayer, […], London: […] John Day, […], published 1562, →OCLC, folio 37, recto:

     [T]hese flatterers, and flibbergibbes another day ſhall come and clawe you by the back […]

Related terms

• flibbertigibbet

References

• “flibbergib”, in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: G. & C. Merriam, 1913, →OCLC.