Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—C

Chauvin

A blind idolator of Napoleon the Great. The name is taken from Les Aides de Camp, by Bayard and Dumanoir, but was popularised in Charet's Conscrit Chauvin.

Chauvinism.
A blind idolatry of Napoleon the Great. Now it means a blind and pugnacious patriotism: a warlike spirit.

“Chauvin, patriote ardent, jusqu'à l'exagération. Allusion au nom d'un type de caricature populaire, comme le prouve cet exemple: 1820, époque ou un liberalism plus large commença à se moquer de ces éloges donnés aux conscrit Chauvin, fit justice de ces niaiseries de l'opinion.” —Lorédan Larchey: Dictionnaire de l'Argot Parisien, 1872.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Chawbacon
Chaucer of Painting
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