ugly customer

American  

noun

1. a hostile or dangerous person.

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ugly customer Idioms  

1. An ill-natured or vicious individual, as in Watch out for Charlie when he's drinking; he can be an ugly customer. This phrase uses ugly in the sense of “mean” or “dangerous.” [c. 1800]

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Etymology

Origin of ugly customer

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

"That 'u'd be a ugly customer to meet on a dark road," he said, holding it up for the others to see.

From Westerfelt by Harben, Will N. (William Nathaniel)

Chamberlain an ugly customer to tackle when at bay.

From Punch, or the London Charivari, Volume 93, July 23, 1887. by Various

It's an ugly customer the fever, though, Mr Whyte," observed Mr Trace; "and I calculate we ought to do him that pleasure.

From Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine - Volume 54, No. 338, December 1843 by Various

He was evidently a Spaniard, and an ugly customer.

From At the Point of the Sword by Hayens, Herbert

With his friends, they say Dick Turpin can be as gentle as a lamb; with his foes, especially with a limb of the law like yourself, he's been found but an ugly customer.

From Rookwood by Ainsworth, William Harrison