picnic

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

n.


Besides the ordinary meaning ofthis word, there is a slang Australian use denoting an awkwardadventure, an unpleasant experience, a troublesome job. InAmerica the slang use is «an easy or agreeable thing.» (`Standard.') The Australasian use is an ironical inversion ofthis.

1896. Modern:

«If a man's horse is awkward and gives him trouble, he willsay, `I had a picnic with that horse,' and so of anymisadventure or disagreeable experience in travelling. So alsoof a troublesome business or other affair; a nursemaid, forinstance, will say, `I had a nice picnic with Miss Nora'shair.'»

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