or hob-nob (q.v.), adv. (old).—1. At random; promiscuously; helter-skelter; ding-dong.
1602. SHAKESPEARE, Twelfth Night, iii. 4. His incensement at this moment is so great that satisfaction can be none but by pangs of death and sepulchre. HOB-NOB is his word; give’t, or take’t.
1664. BUTLER, Hudibras, ii., 3. 990. Altho’ set down HAB-NAB at random.
c. 1696. B. E., A New Dictionary of the Canting Crew, s.v. HAB-NAB, at a Venture, Unsight, Unseen, Hit or Miss.
1725. A New Canting Dictionary, s.v.
2. (old).—By hook or by crook; by fair means or foul.
1581. J. LYLY, Euphues, 109. Philantus determined HABNAB to send his letters.
Verb (old).—To drink with; giving health for health.
1836. HORACE SMITH, The Tin Trumpet. ‘Address to the Mummy.’
| Perhaps that very hand, now pinioned flat, | |
| Has HOB-A-NOBBED with Pharaoh, glass to glass. |
