gnome of Zürich en · NOUN
Etymology
Popularized by Labour politician George Brown during the sterling crisis of 1964.
Meanings
-
(derogatory, humorous) A Swiss banker.
When the pound was under attack, Mr. Brown said it was “the Gnomes of Zurich” who were out to bust it.
1968 June 24, Adam Smith, “My Friend the Gnome of Zurich Says Don't Look Over Your Shoulder, A Major Money Crisis Is Gaining on You”, in New York Magazine, volume 1, number 12, page 17:
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| gnome of Zurich | alternative | lexicographic | |
| gnomes of Zürich | Number=Plur | lexicographic |