The Dumb Waiter

The Dumb Waiter Glossary

Braces

British slang for suspenders. Straps that loop over one's shoulders to hold up pants.

Kaw

Used throughout the play by Ben as an exclamation of surprise and disgust.

Crockery

Plates, dishes, cups, and other similar items, especially ones made of earthenware or china.

Ballcock

A mechanism or machine for filling water tanks, while avoiding overflow; found in flush toilets, for example.

Fortnight

A period of two weeks.

Jabbering

Talking rapidly and excitedly but with little sense.

Rheumatism

Any disease marked by inflammation and pain in the joints, muscles, or fibrous tissue, especially rheumatoid arthritis.

Kip

In British slang, to nap or sleep.

Pong

In British slang, a strong, unpleasant smell. Can be used as a noun or a verb.

Ardent

Enthusiastic or passionate.

Cadge

To obtain by imposing on another's generosity or friendship; to obtain by begging.

Taut

Stretched or pulled tight; not slack.

Blimey

A British expression of surprise, excitement, or alarm.

Shilling

A former British coin and monetary unit equal to one twentieth of a pound or twelve pence.

Bloke

British slang for a man.

Mutt

A mongrel dog; a dog of mixed breed or uncertain origin.

Birk

British slang insult.

Liquidation

Winding up the affairs of a company or firm by ascertaining liabilities and apportioning assets.

Bob

Archaic British slang for a shilling.

Larder

A room or large cupboard for storing food.

Deference

Humble submission and respect.

Sustenance

Food and drink regarded as a source of strength; nourishment.