subs. (common).—1. A cab that leaves the rank and ‘crawls’ the street in search of fares.
1860. Daily News. It is said the question of making increased provisions for cab-stands, with a view to the restriction of the wandering cabs called CRAWLERS, is now under the consideration of the Chief Commissioner of Police.
1885. Daily News, Aug. 7, p. 5, col. 1. How often does the driver of the CRAWLER increase his pace just as he sees some one venturing to attempt a crossing.
2. (common).—A contemptible person, especially a ‘bum-sucker’ or ‘lickspittle.’ For synonyms, see SNIDE.
1885. Evening News, 21 Sept., p. 4, col. 1. The complainant called her father a liar, a bester, and a CRAWLER.
