E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Guil’lotine (3 syl.),
So named from Joseph Ignace Guillotin, a French physician, who proposed its adoption to prevent unnecessary pain (1738–1814).
1
It was facetiously called “Mdlle. Guillotin” or “Guillotin’s daughter.” It was introduced April 25th, 1792, and is still used in France. A previous instrument invented by Dr. Antoine Louis was called a Louisette (3 syl.).
2
The MAIDEN (q.v.), introduced into Scotland (1566) by the Regent Morton, when the laird of Pennicuick was to be beheaded, was a similar instrument Discontinued in 1681.
3
“It was but this very day that the daughter of M. de Guillotin was recognised by her fatber in the National Assembly, and it should properly be called ‘Mademoiselle Guillotin.’”—Dumas: The Countess de Charny, chap. xvii.
It was facetiously called “Mdlle. Guillotin” or “Guillotin’s daughter.” It was introduced April 25th, 1792, and is still used in France. A previous instrument invented by Dr. Antoine Louis was called a Louisette (3 syl.).
