Brewer, E. Cobham. Dictionary of Phrase & Fable. Helter-skelter.

Reference > Brewer’s Dictionary > Helter-skelter.

Help.

Helve.

CONTENTS · BIBLIOGRAPHIC RECORD

E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.

Helter-skelter.

Higgledy-piggledy; in hurry and confusion. The Latin hilariter-celeriter comes tolerably near the meaning of post-haste, as Shakespeare uses the expression (2 Henry IV., v. 3):—

“Sir John, I am thy Pistol and thy friend,

And helter-skelter have I rode to thee,

And tidings do I bring.”

Help.

Helve.

Click here to shop the Bartleby Bookstore.