or lovey-dovey, subs. (common).—A term of endearment.
1763. FOOTE, The Mayor of Garratt, i. I go, LOVY.
1796. J. G. HOLMAN, Abroad and at Home, i. 1. If I am ever so little a while away from you, my darling, it appears a long, tedious age. How does my LOVY do? Do look tender! ’tis so becoming to you; and beside, if you don’t, you know you break my heart.
1837. DICKENS, Pickwick Papers, p. 385 (ed. 1857). ‘Who else is a goin’, LOVEY?’ said Mrs. Cluppins in an insinuating manner.
1841. Punch, i. 226. ‘The Prince’s Title.’ LOVEY-DOVEY has been spoken of; but it is not likely that His Royal Highness will assume the style and dignity of LOVEY-DOVEY for a considerable period.
