E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Bob’adil.
A military braggart of the first water. Captain Bobadil is a character in Ben Jonson’s comedy of Every Man in his Humour. This name was probably suggested by Bobadilla, first governor of Cuba, who sent Columbus home in chains. (See VINCENT.)
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“Bobadil is the author’s best invention, and is worthy to march in the same regiment with Bessus and Pistol, Parolles, and the Copper Captain” (q.v.).—B. W. Procter.
See all these names in their proper places.
