subs. (pugilists’).—A well-delivered blow; anything that scores; hence TELLING (colloquial) = effective, to the point.

1

  1834.  W. H. AINSWORTH, Rookwood, iv. xxxv., ‘The Double Cross.’

        Ven luckily for Jem a TELLER
Vos planted right upon his smeller.

2

  1832.  EMERSON, Burns. Not Latimer, not Luther, struck more TELLING blows against false theology than did this brave singer.

3

  1888.  Academy, 1 Dec. 345. Put TELLINGLY and persuasively.

4

  2.  See TAILOR.

5