/ · 1894 Brewer’s · B · Barmecide
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
The word is used to express the uncertainty of things on which we set our heart. As the beggar looked forward to a feast, but found only empty dishes; so many a joy is found to be mere illusion when we come to partake of it.
“To-morrow! the mysterious unknown guest
Who cries aloud, ‘Remember Barmecide!
And tremble to be happy with the rest.ʹ”
Longfellow.
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Entry taken from Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, edited by the Rev. E. Cobham Brewer, LL.D. and revised in 1895.
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