int. Obs. Also 7 snailes, snayles, ’snayles. An abbreviation of God’s nails (see GOD sb. 14 a), used as a petty oath or exclamation.
1599. Hayward, Hen. IV., I. 19. Sir Hugh swore, swownes, and snayles, let vs set vpon them.
1605. London Prodigal, V. i. 222. Snailes is there such cowardice in that?
1617. Middleton & Rowley, Fair Quarrel, V. i. Snailes shees the Phisicians Bronstrops, Trim.
[1821. Scott, Kenilw., xxiv. Nay, ’snails! I think his horse will take the matter in his own hand. Ibid. (1828), F. M. Perth, xii. ’Snails!… were any neighbour to meet me…, what could they think?]
