ride a horse foaled by an acorn

Definition

To be hanged on the gallows.

Etymology

An allusion to the oak used to construct the gallows.

Example Sentences

• "You'll ride on a horſe that was foal'd of an acron. That is; the gallows."
• ""What ho, my kiddy!" cried Job, "don't be glimflashy; why you'd cry beef on a blater; the cove is a bob cull, and a pal of my own; and moreover, is as pretty a Tyburn blossom as ever was brought up to ride a horse foaled by an acorn.""
• "Fourteen, sir. No age to be riding a horse foaled by an acorn, I can tell you."