Definitions by literaryvictorianpirate

Adam's Ale

Water

From the 1811 Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue

I'm really thirsty, could I have some Adam's Ale?
It's going to be hot on the hike, so make sure to drink plenty of Adam's Ale.

Adam's Ale by literaryvictorianpirate May 10, 2025

Blanket Hornpipe

The amorous congress; sex

From the 1811 Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue

They were doing the blanket hornpipe last night.

Blanket Hornpipe by literaryvictorianpirate May 10, 2025

Scandal Broth

From the 1811 Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue. Also called 'Cat Lap' or 'Chatter Broth,' it refers simply to tea, one of the greatest beverages ever. Named for the amount of conversation and gossip often shared while having tea during the Georgian/Regency & Victorian eras. At the time, it was intended to refer to gossip shared by women in particular (but let's be honest. It definitely wasn't just women sipping tea & spilling secrets behind closed parlor doors).

1811 Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue, by Francis Grose
Additional information from InfoPlease and the Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894

"(dramatic gasp) No he did not! Hold everything, I'll put the kettle on and make us some scandal broth!"

Scandal Broth by literaryvictorianpirate January 10, 2023