thumbing, vbl. n.
(ˈθʌmɪŋ)
[f. thumb v. + -ing1.]
The action of the verb thumb, in various senses; spec. in dicing: see quot. 1711; also, the stretching of a fabric in order to produce a soft pliable finish; in quot. 1847 the keeping of a subordinate under one's thumb.
| 1623 Fletcher & Rowley Maid in Mill v. ii, Miller, this is not for your thumming. 1711 Puckle Club 22 Gamesters have the top, the peep, eclipse, thumbing. [Note. Securing with the little finger a die on the outside of the box, Ditto with the thumb, when the person play'd with, sits on the right hand.] 1845 Mech. Mag. XLII. 14 It was a known practice to pull the cloth by hand, three or four persons being stationed on each side, for the purpose of ‘thumbing’ as it was termed. 1847–78 Halliwell, Thumbing, a Nottingham phrase, used to describe that species of intimidation practised by masters on their servants when the latter are compelled to vote as their employers please. 1889 Jessopp Coming of Friars iii. 130 The perpetual thumbing and fingering would subject [books] to immense wear and tear. |