jack-a-dandy

[ jak-uh-dan-dee ]

noun

, Older Use.

, plural jack-a-dan·dies.

1. dandy ( def 1 ).

Other Words From

• jack-a-dandy·ism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of jack-a-dandy¹

First recorded in 1625–35; Jack ( def ) + a ³( def ) + dandy

Example Sentences

His latest Nursery Rhyme Book includes classics such as Little Jack Sprat, Handy Spandy Jack-a-Dandy, Gregory Griggs and a few other, possibly less-known rhymes, some of which might not normally get as much attention as they're bound to do thanks to this lovely book.

From The Guardian

Some jolly Jack-a-Dandy stands upon the roof, at the imminent risk of his neck, and scrapes a fiddle to what, considering the pace of the coach, must have been a tune of the most agonizing description; while an amorous fellow hugs his girl behind.

From Project Gutenberg

Do you think that I am going to be pitched on my head by a Jack-a-dandy like that," the fellow snarled, "and do naught?

From Project Gutenberg

It seems to have been in use on the Scottish border at the end of the 18th century, its full form, it is suggested, being “Jack-a-Dandy,” which from 1659 had a sense much like its later one.

From Project Gutenberg

Nanty Panty, Jack-a-Dandy, Stole a piece of sugar-candy, From the grocer's shoppy shop, And away did hoppy hop.

From Project Gutenberg