subs. (theatrical).—(1) Flattery, and (2) ARTFULNESS (q.v.). For synonyms, see SOFT SOAP.
Adj. (common).—Smart; fashionable; ON IT (q.v.). GUIVER LAD = a low-class dandy; also an ARTFUL MEMBER (q.v.).
a. 1866. VANCE, The Chickaleary Cove. The stock around my squeeze a GUIVER colour see.
Verb (sporting).—To humbug; TO FOOL ABOUT (q.v.); to show off.
1891. Sporting Life, 25 March. He goes into a ring to fight his man, not to spar and look pretty, and run, and dodge, and GUIVER.
