subs. (common).—1. A prostitute. For synonyms, see BARRACK-HACK and TART.
2. In pl. (Irish).—Men (c. 1880) enforcing the decrees of secret societies by violence. Their action was chiefly confined to the western counties, and their raids were nocturnal, whence the name. Their notices were signed ‘Captain Moonlight.’
1882. The Saturday Review, 30 Sept., p. 422. Taking MOONLIGHTERS under his direct protection.
3. The same as MOONSHINER (q.v.).
