Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—A

An Abbey Laird

An insolvent debtor sheltered by the precincts of Holyrood Abbey.

“As diligence cannot be proceeded with on Sunday, the Abbey Lairds (as they were jocularly called) were enabled to come forth on that day to mingle in our society.” —R. Chambers.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Abbey-lubber
Abbassides
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More on Abbey Laird from Fact Monster:

  • Abbey Laird - An Abbey Laird An insolvent debtor sheltered by the precincts of Holyrood Abbey. “As ...
  • Dictionary of Phrase and Fable: A - Definitions, origins, and illustrative excerpts for words, phases, and literary allusions starting with "A"

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