snollygoster
[snol-ee-gos-ter]
- a clever, unscrupulous person.
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Origin of snollygoster
First recorded in 1855–60; origin uncertain
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for snollygoster
Historical Examples
Upon looking back we saw that it was the giant negro, Snollygoster, who spoke.
Barney Blake, The Boy PrivateerHerrick Johnstone
As it was, he was more scared than hurt, and Snollygoster added another plume to his cap.
Barney Blake, The Boy PrivateerHerrick Johnstone
He next threw himself into the sea, out of the ports of the gun-room, but was rescued by Snollygoster.
Barney Blake, The Boy PrivateerHerrick Johnstone
Word Origin and History for snollygoster
1846, American English slang, fanciful coinage.
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Online Etymology Dictionary, © 2010 Douglas Harper