Newgate knocker

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English[edit]

Etymology[edit]

Supposed to resemble the knocker on the prisoners' door at Newgate.

Noun[edit]

Newgate knocker (plural Newgate knockers)

  1. (UK, slang, obsolete) A lock of hair worn twisted back toward the ear.
    Synonyms: aggravator, number six

References[edit]

  • John Camden Hotten (1873) The Slang Dictionary
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