[f. LION + -SHIP.] The quality or condition of being a ‘lion’; also, the personality of a ‘lion’ (used as a mock title).
1769. Goldsm., Epil. to ‘Sister,’ 32. Strip but this vizor off, and sure I am You’ll find his lionship a very lamb.
1837. New Monthly Mag., L. 179. The history of poor Byron’s lionship lives in all our memories.
1865. F. Martin, Life J. Clare, 218. William Hilton, like Clare, was averse to lionship.
