subs. (old).—A tom-cat. [An abbreviation of Gilbert = O. Fr.: Tibert, the cat in the fable of Reynard the Fox.]
1360. CHAUCER, The Romaunt of the Rose, 6204 (Thibert le Cas is rendered by GIBBE, our cat).
1598. SHAKESPEARE, 1 Henry IV., i. 2. I am as melancholy as a GIB-CAT.
1614. JONSON, Bartholomew Fair, i., 1. Before I endure such another day with him, I’ll be drawn with a good GIB-CAT through the great pond at home.
1663. Rump Songs. ‘Rump Carbonadoed,’ ii., 71. As if they had less wit and grace than GIB-CATS.
1785. GROSE, A Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue, s.v.
