Dictionary

on the pad en · X · etymology 1

Etymology

As a reference to padding one's income.

Meanings

1. (slang) Taking regular bribes.
   • New York City police officers "on the pad" were found to receive up to $850 a month to protect a single dealer. 2002, Samuel Walker, Charles M. Katz, The Police in America: An Introduction, page 325:
   • The badge showed that he was on the inspector's pad and the telephone numbers suggested that he had connections. 1978, Burgess Laughlin, Job Opportunities in the Black Market, page 5:
   • But I swear to you, Dave, I never got any free action because of my badge, and I never went on the pad. 2011, James Lee Burke, A Dave Robicheaux Ebook Boxed Set:

on the pad en · X · etymology 2

Etymology

From the sense of "to pad" meaning to practice highway robbery.

Meanings

1. (archaic, slang) Practicing highway robbery; robbing travelers on the public roads.
   • As for why I went on the pad, 'tis simple: I was poor as a church mouse. 1986, Maggie Mackeever, Lady Sherry and the Highwayman, page 218:
   • . I crown thy nab with a gage of bene-bowse, And stall thee by the salmon into the clowes; To maund on the pad, and strike all the cheats, 1622, John Fletcher, Beggar's Bush:
   • I go on the pad. 1788, John O'Keeffe, The Prisoner at Large:

Forms