Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—T

Thimble

Scotch, Thummle, originally “Thumb-bell,” because it was worn on the thumb, as sailors still wear their thimbles. It is a Dutch invention, introduced into England in 1695 by John Lofting, who opened a thimble manufactory at Islington.

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Thimble-rig
Thieves on the Cross
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

More on Thimble from Fact Monster:

  • anemone - anemone anemone or windflower,any of the perennial herbs, wild or cultivated, of the genus Anemone ...
  • Popeye the Sailor - Biography of Popeye the Sailor, Fist-fighting, spinach-loving sailor of comics and cartoons
  • figwort: Common Species and Their Uses - Common Species and Their Uses Among its many wildflowers are several European species that have ...
  • The Newbery Medal - The Newbery Medal For the most distinguished literature for children published in the U.S.; given ...
  • Space Glossary - Space Glossary This page provides explanations and images of bodies throughout the universe: ...

Related Content