subs. phr. (pugilists’).—1. A second at a prizefight.
1753. SMOLLETT, The Adventures of Ferdinand, Count Fathom (L.). An old bruiser makes a good BOTTLE-HOLDER.
1822. SCOTT, The Fortunes of Nigel, ii. Cold water, and a little vinegar, applied according to the scientific method practised by the BOTTLE-HOLDERS in a modern ring.
1850. THACKERAY, The Adventures of Philip, xl. ‘Do you remember his tremendous fight with Biggs?’ ‘Remember? who didn’t? Marston was Berry’s BOTTLE-HOLDER.’
2. (common).—One who gives moral support; a backer; an adviser. [In The Times of 1851, Lord Palmerston was reported to consider himself the BOTTLE-HOLDER of oppressed States; and in Punch of the same year a cartoon appeared representing that statesman as the ‘judicious BOTTLE-HOLDER.’] Hence BOTTLE-HOLDING = backing; supporting.
1816. SCOTT, The Antiquary, xxxix. Petrie … recommends, upon his own experience, as tutor in a family of distinction, this attitude to all led captains, tutors, dependents, and BOTTLE-HOLDERS of every description.
1878–80. JUSTIN MCCARTHY, A History of Our Own Times, II., 115. The noble lord (Palmerston) told the deputation that the past crisis was one which required on the part of the British Government much generalship and judgment, and that a good deal of judicious BOTTLE-HOLDING was obliged to be brought into play.
