subs. (old).—A nickname for a person with a ‘good head for figures.’ Waiters in London are very commonly so called.—See quot. 1861. [From the ‘chalks’ or score formerly marked up behind a tavern bar, the ‘tally’ being ‘kept in the head’ instead of being ‘chalked up’ on a board or slate.]
1856. Punch, vol. XXXI., p. 134. Billy. You see, Billy, my heddication war summat neglected, and I haven’t got the nateral adwantage of a good CHALK-HEAD.
1861. Punch, vol. XLI., p. 129. Among tavern waiters a ready reckoner is called a good CHALK-HEAD.
