ˈnut-crack
[f. nut n.1]
1. = nut-cracker 1. Now rare or Obs.
| 1570 Levins Manip. 5 Nutcracke, nucifrangium. 1681 Reply to ‘Mischief of Impositions’ 4 They can find in their hearts to play with Nut-cracks and Hobby-horses. 1682 Southerne Loyal Brother v. Wks. 1721 I. 59 Indeed a nutcrack, or some such conceited Hyroglyphical Engine does well in the hand of a magistrate. 1793 A. Seward Lett. (1811) III. 266 A mouth that will be nut-cracks at 60. 1806 J. Tomlinson Doncaster (1887) 257 For 16 pairs of nut⁓cracks to mansion house. |
2. Nut-crack Night, Hallowe'en.
| 1777 Brand Pop. Antiq. App. 344 From the Custom of flinging [nuts]..into the Fire, it has doubtless had its vulgar Name of Nutcrack-Night. 1825 Brockett N.C. Gloss. |