"Dandy trap" is a bit of slang which certainly invites wide-ranging conjecture as to its meaning. I was certainly far afield in my guesswork before I read the definition in Americanisms, Old and New by John Stephen Farmer...
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... which is as follows:
Dandy Trap—A loose stone, which tilts when trodden on, and, in wet weather, throws up the mud under it, to the great detriment of the clothes of the victim.
It's too bad that winter is now gone, because this would be a great term to throw around during muddy, sloggy hikes!
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| I say, beware the dandy trap back around the corner. Could be hazardous to your exquisite checkered trousers... |
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3 comments:
My dog is female but, heaven knows, her speckled belly has been thoroughly splattered in the dandy trap that formed out back during our so called Spring this year.
Saw your Type M for Murder post but could not comment there. Did mention your research on April 10th post on Word Wenches blog discussion on historical accuracy.
Hi Liz!
My ankle has suffered from slipping on many a "dandy trap!" ;-)
I imagine your puppy is less distressed by all the mud than you would be (I'm assuming a good cleaning is necessary after she romps about outside...)
I just left a comment on Type M... you might try again, if you want.
And thank you for the mention on Word Wenches! I've not heard of that blog. Going to wander over there now!
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