Dictionary

stab-rag en · NOUN

Etymology

From stab + rag.

Meanings

1. (UK, obsolete, slang) A regimental tailor.
   • In conclusion, the bottom on the jacket, and the button-holes, companions thereto, would baffle the criticism of the most hyper-fastidious stab-rag; and the shirt collar, with every other detail—never forgetting the chiaro-scuro—are equal to any of the preceding. 1841 August 21, “Fine Arts”, in Punch, or the London Charivari, volume 1, page 65:
   • Corporal Target is at the stab-rag—tailor's, sir. Bein' measured for a new overcoat, sir. 1943, Stella Gibbons, Ticky, London: Random House, published 2012, →ISBN, page 127:

Forms