E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Suds (Mrs.).
A facetious name for a washwoman or laundress. Of course, the allusion is to soap-suds.
1
To be in the suds—in ill-temper. According to the song, “Ne’er a bit of comfort is upon a washing day,” all are put out of gear, and therefore out of temper.
