[f. as prec. + HOLDER.] One who holds a bottle; spec. one who waits on a pugilist at a prize-fight: fig. a second, a backer, a supporter.
1753. Smollett, Ct. Fathom (L.). An old bruiser makes a good bottle-holder.
1816. Scott, Antiq., xxxix. Tutors, dependents, and bottle-holders of every description.
1858. Carlyle, Fredk. Gt., I. IV. v. 442. His Majesty’s bottle-holder in that battle with the Finance Nightmares and Imbroglios.
So Bottle-holding vbl. sb., backing, supporting.
1884. Pall Mall Gaz., 5 April, 3/1. It [the Spectator] does a good deal of injudicious bottle-holding for Mr. Chamberlain.
