Obs. Also berdash. [Derivation uncertain. Possibly the same as BARDASH (as sometimes also spelt), on the ground that the article of apparel was considered to be of effeminate character, and a foppery for men to be ashamed of. Connection with HABERDASH is also suggested, though at present unsupported by any evidence.]
An article of personal adornment worn in the time of Queen Anne and George I.; ‘the fringed sash worn round the waist by gentlemen’ (Fairholt); ‘it would seem a kind of cravat’ (Hare, Fragm., 1873).
1713. Steele, Guardian, No. 10, ¶ 5. I have prepared a treatise against the Cravat and Berdash [other edd. bardash].
1721. Mrs. Centlivre, Plat. Lady, Epil. 190. Yet tell me, Sire, don’t you as nice appear [as the woman] With your false Calves, Burdash, and Fav’rites [i.e., curls on the temples. Stage direction ‘Pointing to her head’].
1730. Female Parson (in Fairholt s.v.), A modern beau … Cane, ruffles, sword-knot, burdash, hat, and feather.
