gombeen

Definition

Usury.

Etymology

From Irish gaimbín (“monetary interest”).

Example Sentences

• "It was said by some that he had been a moneylender back in Ireland; a ‘gombeen’ in their slang: a hated figure."
• ""Could you give me two ounces of butter?" "Well, I don't know. We sell butter usually by the weight half pound or a pound." "Do you sell quarter pounds?" "Well, I think so." "Could you give me half a quarter pound?" "Yes." "Half a quarter pound then." Sebastian watching him. O you sly gombeen man. The backs of these stores, most sordid places in the world. You stupid, intolerable oaf."