▪ I. phiz humorous colloq.
(fɪz)
Also 7 phis, 7–8 phyz, phys, 8 phizz, (fiz).
[Colloq. abbreviation of phiznomy, physiognomy.]
Face, countenance; expression or aspect of face.
| 1688 Shadwell Sqr. Alsatia v. i, In deed your magnanimous Phyz is somewhat disfigur'd by it, captain. 1691 New Discov. Old Intreague xxvii, Next Cousin Will,..With Aukward Phys. 1693 Congreve Old Bach. iv. viii, What a furious phiz I have! 1762 Churchill Ghost iv, Savour'd in talk, in dress, and phyz, More of another World than this. 1774 Gouv. Morris in Sparks Life & Writ. (1832) I. 21 Grave phizes are grinned out of countenance. 1868 W. S. Gilbert Bab Ballads, Only Dancing Girl, And her painted, tainted Phiz. |
b. Comb., as phiz-maker, one who makes ‘faces’ or grimaces.
| 1742 J. Yarrow Love at first Sight Prol., Mass John the Phiz-Maker with zealous Cant. |
▪ II. phiz, phizz
obs. ff. fizz.