subs. (common).—1.  A simpleton; a fiat; a SPONGEs (q.v.); an old roué. Also as adj.

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  1886.  Broadside Ballad, ‘I took it On.’ I took it on, Of course I was a JOSSER.

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  1889.  Ally Sloper’s Half Holiday, 6 July, ‘Jury Box JOSSERS’ [Title].

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  c. 1890.  Music Hall Song, ‘I Don’t Like London.’

        Whenever I’m near them—they always cry
    Ain’t he a JOSSER, ain’t he a guy?

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  c. 1890.  Music Hall Song, ‘I’m Living with Mother Now.’ As a JOSSER I think you will do.

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  1890.  Punch, 22 Feb. These ‘Equality’ JOSSERS would spile it; if ’arf their reforms they can carry.

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  1892.  MILLIKEN, ’Arry Ballads, p. 58. I’d keep all sech JOSSERS in mug.

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  1893.  Standard, 29 Jan., p. 2. Now suppose we are on the road … and we meet a JOSSER policeman? Is it fair that the JOSSER should stop us?

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  2.  (Australian).—A parson. For synonyms, see DEVIL-DODGER and SKY-PILOT.

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