a., Wellerian a. [see -ESQUE, -IAN], typical or reminiscent of Sam Weller or his father, two celebrated characters in Dickens’s Pickwick Papers. Also Wellerism, a speech or expression employed by, or typical of, either of these characters.
1858. Louisa M. Alcott, Little Women, x. ‘I’m the wretch that did it, sir,’ said the new member, with a Welleresque nod to Mr. Pickwick.
1886. (title) Wellerisms from ‘Pickwick’ and ‘Master Humphrey’s Clock.’
1886. Pall Mall Gaz., 20 Feb., 5/2. Sam Weller’s story of the muffins is not Wellerian at all.
