Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—S

Spinning Jenny

Jennie is a diminutive and corruption of engine ('ginie). A little engine invented by James Hargreaves, a Lancashire weaver, in 1767. It is usually said that he so called it after his wife and daughter; but the name of his wife was Elizabeth, and he never had a daughter.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Spinoza's System
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