Newgate knocker

English

Etymology

Supposed to resemble the knocker on the prisoners' door at Newgate.

Noun

Newgate knocker (plural Newgate knockers)

  1. (UK, slang, obsolete) A lock of hair worn twisted back toward the ear.
    Synonyms: aggravator, number six

References

  • John Camden Hotten (1873) The Slang Dictionary