fizgig

[ fiz-gig ]

noun

1. a type of firework that makes a loud hissing sound.
2. a whirling toy that makes a whizzing noise.
3. fishgig.
4. Australian. a police informer.

fizgig

/ ˈfɪzˌɡɪɡ /

noun

1. a frivolous or flirtatious girl
2. a firework or whirling top that fizzes as it moves
3. a variant of fishgig
4. slang.
   a police informer

verb

1. slang.
   intr to inform on criminals to the police

Word History and Origins

Origin of fizgig¹

First recorded in 1520–30; of obscure origin; earlier fisgig, perhaps equivalent to fis ( late Middle English fise term of abuse; akin to Old Norse fīsa “to break wind,” which well fits the sound made by the firework) + gig “a flighty, giddy girl; a top (i.e., the toy); odd-looking character, a fool; a joke, merriment”; fizzle, gig ³( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of fizgig¹

C16: probably from obsolete fise a breaking of wind + gig girl

Example Sentences

Sympathise with him though many of us no doubt will – who doesn’t love a fizgig? – there seem to me to be both theoretical and practical difficulties with his project.

From The Guardian

You’ve got one of your fits on again,” cried Frank contemptuously; “what a gunpowder fizgig you are!”

From Project Gutenberg

And you could laugh in those days, And didn’t snigger like the ginger fizgig.

From Project Gutenberg

"And you'll be hanged if you do," said Jack, as he walked out of the room; "so it's all one either way, old fizgig."

From Project Gutenberg

Albacores and bonitas now began to make their appearance, and the officers and men were furnished with hooks and lines, and our harpoons and fizgigs were prepared.

From Project Gutenberg