E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
King.
The Anglo-Saxon cyng, cyning, from cyn a nation or people, and the termination—ing, meaning “of,” as “son of,” “chief of,” etc. In Anglo-Saxon times the king was elected on the Wi’tena-gemòt, and was therefore the choice of the nation.
1
The factory king. Richard Oastler, of Bradford, the successful advocate of the “Ten Hours’ Bill” (1789–1861).
2
Ré Galantuomo (the gallant king), Victor Emmanuel of Italy (1820–1878)
The factory king. Richard Oastler, of Bradford, the successful advocate of the “Ten Hours’ Bill” (1789–1861).
