subs. (nautical).—1. A bad knot with the second tie across; as opposed to a reef knot in which the end and outer part are in line. Also GRANNY’S KNOT or GRANNY’S BEND.
2. (common).—Conceit of superior knowledge.
1851–61. H. MAYHEW, London Labour and the London Poor, i., 404. To take the GRANNY off them as has white hands.
Verb (thieves’).—To know; to recognise. Also to swindle.
1851–61. H. MAYHEW, London Labour and the London Poor, i., 461. The shallow got so GRANNIED in London.
Ibid., p. 340. If they GRANNY the manley (perceive the signature) of a brother officer or friend.
