E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Mandarin’
is not a Chinese word, but one given by the Portuguese colonists at Maca’o to the officials called by the natives Khiouping (3 syl.) It is from the verb mandar (to command).
1
The nine ranks of mandarins are distinguished by the button in their cap:—1, ruby; 2, coral; 3, sapphire; 4, an opaque blue stone; 5, crystal; 6, an opaque white shell; 7, wrought gold; 8. plain gold; and 9, silver.
2
“The whole body of Chinese mandarins con&sgrave;ists of twenty-seven members. They are appointed for (1) imperial birth; (2) long service; (3) illustrious deeds; (4) knowledge; (5) ability; (6) zeal; (7) nobility; and (8) aristocratic birth.”—Gutzlay.
