outcomeling en · NOUN
Etymology
From Middle English outcomlyng. By surface analysis, out- + comeling.
Meanings
-
A stranger; foreigner.
It is said that up to a recent period, the privilege of descent from the veritable "old stock" was highly prized and religiously respected, and that "outcomelings" (as strangers or new settlers were once designated) were regarded with compassionate condescension.
1859, David Hudson M'Nicoll, Handbook for Southport, medical and general:"Who is it?" she enquired. "I dunno. An outcomeling. Said he'd give me a penny."
1990, Charles Palliser, Quincunx:
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| out-comeling | alternative | lexicographic | |
| outcomelings | Number=Plur | lexicographic |