[? f. STAVE v. + -ING.]
† 1. ? Addicted to fighting with staves, quarrelsome. Obs.
But possibly a misprint for staring.
1621. Fletcher, Pilgr., II. ii. Rod. … What have you brought me Souldiers? Lop. We know not wel what: a strange staving fellow, Sullen enough I am sure.
2. U. S. colloq. As an intensive: Very strong, excessive. [Cf. STAVE v. 10.]
c. 1850. Cincinnati Times (Farmer citing Bartlett). A staving dram put him in better humour.
1877. ‘Park Ludlow’ (Theron Brown), Wooden Spoon, v. 111. Well, you smoke and I’ll study; I’ve got a staving long lesson.
