E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Bias.
The weight in bowls which makes them deviate from the straight line; hence any favourite idea or pursuit, or whatever predisposes the mind in a particular direction.
1
Bowls are not now loaded, but the bias depends on the shape of the bowls. They are flattened on one side, and therefore roll obliquely.
