Definitions

from The Century Dictionary.

  • noun A hedge-priest or orator among gipsies and beggars. Also patercove.

Etymologies

Sorry, no etymologies found.

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Examples

  • During this overture the patrico and the upright man had ascended the rostrum, each taking his place; the former on the right hand of Turpin, the latter upon his left.

    Rookwood William Harrison Ainsworth 1843

  • "Who is this?" exclaimed the Major, flinging himself from his horse, and seizing the patrico; "this is not Turpin."

    Rookwood William Harrison Ainsworth 1843

  • "I come to tell you that there are strangers -- ladies -- within the priory," said the patrico, gravely.

    Rookwood William Harrison Ainsworth 1843

  • Astonished at the sight of the party, the patrico was about to address the priest as an acquaintance, when his more orthodox brother raised his finger to his lips, in token of caution.

    Rookwood William Harrison Ainsworth 1843

  • This venerable personage was no other than the patrico, or hierophant of the Canting Crew.

    Rookwood William Harrison Ainsworth 1843

  • "They have ridden, I understand, from Rookwood," answered the patrico.

    Rookwood William Harrison Ainsworth 1843

  • Zoroaster leaped from the table, and his example was followed by Turpin, and more leisurely by the patrico.

    Rookwood William Harrison Ainsworth 1843

  • _ Yes, sir; a cunning man, and a fortune-teller; a very ancient stroller all the world over, and has travelled with gipsies: and is a patrico.

    Rookwood William Harrison Ainsworth 1843

  • "Eleanor is the name, assuredly," replied the patrico, somewhat surprised.

    Rookwood William Harrison Ainsworth 1843

  • To the Bowling-green the party proceeded, leaving the patrico in undisturbed possession of the lifeless body of Black Bess.

    Rookwood William Harrison Ainsworth 1843

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