larrikinism

Dictionary of Australasian Words Phrases and Usages by Edward E. Morris

n.


the conduct of larrikins (q.v.).

1870. `The Australian' (Richmond, Victoria), Sept. 10, p. 3,col. 3:

«A slight attempt at `larrikinism' was manifested. . . . «

1871. J. J. Simpson, `Recitations and Rhymes,' p. 17:

«Melbourne larrikinism is still very bad,

By the papers each day we are told.»

1875. `Spectator' (Melbourne), June 19, p. 80, col. 2:

«He took as his theme the `Dialect of Victoria,' which wascoarse and vulgar to a degree. `Larrikinism' was used as asynonym for `blackguardism.'»

1876. A. P. Martin, `Sweet Girl-Graduate,' p. 20:

«There is no doubt that its rising generation afforded materialfor letters in the newspapers, under the headings `Larrikinism,'or, `What shall we do with our boys?'»

1893. `The Argus,' Feb. 23:

«Outbreaks of larrikinism are not always harmless ebullitionsof animal spirits. Sometimes they have very serious results.»