Obs. Also 6 fronion, frannian. [Of obscure origin.
Cf. OF. fraignant, pr. pple. of fraindre to break; fraignets uproar. The usual explanation that the word is a corruption of FAINEANT hardly suits the sense.]
A gay reckless fellow; a gallant, paramour. By Spenser applied also to a loose woman.
1571. Edwardes, Damon & Pith., in Hazl., Dodsley, IV. 60. But, my franion, I tell you this one thing.
1587. Turbervile, Epitaphs & Sonn. (1837), 319.
| And such as skilfull are, | |
| in daunsing doe desire | |
| To practise that whereby to set | |
| their fronions harts on fire. |
1589. Rare Triumphs Love & Fortune, III. i., in Hazl., Dodsley, VI. 179.
| Thou may’st perceive I am no such companion: | |
| I am a gentleman, a courtier, and a merry frank franion. |
1596. Spenser, F. Q., V. iii. 22.
| As for this Ladie, which he sheweth here, | |
| Is not (I wager) Florimell at all; | |
| But some fayre Franion, fit for such a fere, | |
| That by misfortune in his hand did fall. |
1600. Heywood, 2st Pt. Edw. IV., I. Wks. 1874, I. 44. Hobs. He’s a frank franion, a merry companion, and loues a wench well.
1810. Lamb, Poems, Going or Gone.
| Fine merry franions, | |
| Wanton companions, | |
| My days are ev’n banyans | |
| With thinking upon ye. |
