E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Buzzard (The)
is meant for Dr. Burnett, whose figure was lusty.
1
“The noble Buzzard ever pleased me best.”
Dryden: Hind and Panther, part iii. 1121.
Buzzard called hawk by courtesy. It is a euphemism—a brevet rank—a complimentary title.
2
“Of small renown, ’tis true; for, not to lie,
We call [your buzzard] “hawk” by courtesy.”
Dryden: Hind and Panther, iii. 1122–3.
Between hawk and buzzard. Not quite a lady or gentleman, nor quite a servant. Applied to tutors in private houses, bear-leaders, and other grown-up persons who are allowed to come down to dessert, but not to be guests at the dinner-table.
