Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—N

Neddy

(a man's name). A contraction and diminutive of Mine Edward-Mine Eddy, My N'Eddy. Teddy is the French tu, toi, form; and Neddy the nunation form. (Ed', Ted, Ned.)

Neddy.
A donkey; a low cart used in Dublin; so called because its jolting keeps the riders eternally nodding.

“The `Set-down' was succeeded by the Noddy, so called from its oscillating motion backwards and forwards.” —Sketches of Ireland (1847).

Neddy.
A dunce; a euphemism for “an ass.”

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Need Makes the old Wife Trot
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