Kentish fire

noun

, British.

1. prolonged clapping by an audience, especially in unison, indicating impatience or disapproval.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Kentish fire¹

Said to have originated in Kent, England, in 1828–29, as an expression of opposition to speakers favoring the Catholic Relief Bill

Example Sentences

All the people who can by any possibility attend, assemble, a procession is formed, and then the most extraordinary mixture of costumes, the noises produced by numerous tom-toms, horns made from elephants' tusks, and the still ruder, if possible, rattle of two pieces of wood, or common metal, which the women beat together to a tune similar to what in Ireland is known as the Kentish fire.

From Project Gutenberg

The people listened to the band, or amused themselves with patriotic songs and Kentish fire, till Mr. Balfour arrived, when their cheering, loud and long, was taken up outside, and reverberated through the city.

From Project Gutenberg

Shortly after the doors were opened it appeared evident that a considerable body of Orangemen were dispersed in different parts, from partial sounds of the "Kentish fire," and other circumstances.

From Project Gutenberg

Immense applause followed the conclusion of this speech, during which time the decanters buzzed round the table, and the glasses being emptied, the company rose, and a full charge of Kentish fire followed; Mr. Jorrocks, sitting all the while, looking as uncomfortable as men in his situation generally do.

From Project Gutenberg

Kentish Fire, vehement and prolonged derisive cheering, so called from indulgence in it in Kent at meetings to oppose the Catholic Emancipation Bill of 1829.

From Project Gutenberg