E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Badger (A).
A licensed huckster, who was obliged to wear a badge. By 5 Eliz., c. 12, it was enacted that “Badgers were to be licensed annually, under a penalty of £5.”
1
“Under Dec. 17, 1565, we read of ‘Certain persons upon Humber side who … by great quantities of corn, two of whom were authorised badgers.’”—State Papers (Domestic Series).
