subs. (old).—A new idea, useful hint, cunning trick, smart dodge.
d. 1555. LATIMER, Works, ii. 422. And now what manner of man do you make me, Master N., when you note me to be so much abused by so ignorant a man, so simple, so plain, and so far without all WRINKLES?
15[?]. Narratives of the Reformation [Camden Society], 102. Palmer as he was a man symple and withoute all WRYNCLES off cloked colusy-one, opened to hym his whole intent.
1580. J. LYLY, Euphues and His England, 389. They are too experte in loue hauing learned in this time of their long peace euery WRINCKLE that is to be scene or imagined.
1709–10. SWIFT, Polite Conversation, i. Lady Ans. Have a care, Miss; they say mocking is catching. Miss. I never heard that. Nev. Why then, Miss, you have one WRINKLE; more than ever you had before.
c. 1876. Music Hall Song, ‘You’re More Than Seven.’
| I know you’re a little bit artful, old boy, | |
| And up to a WRINKLE or two. |
