E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Maccabæ’us.
The Hammerer. A surname given to Judas Asmonæus; similar to “Martel,” the name given to Charles, son of Pepin He’ristel, who beat down the Saracens as with a sledge-hammer. Some think the name is a notarica or acrostic: Mi Camokah Baelim Jehovah (Who is like to thee among the gods, O Lord?). (Exodus xv. 11.) (See NOTARICA.)
