scarlet n.
1. an upper-class ruffian [a synon. for blood n.1 (1)].
Lydia (1769) II. 437: I expected to have seen her [...] encouraging the young bloods, bucks and scarlets at a riot in Drury-lane, the most distinguishing and newest Mark of a Lady ' of Quality. |
2. one who rides to hounds [the ‘pink’ coat].
High Life in London 10 Feb. 8/2: Lord Stanley, who rode a beautiful clip’d grey; was now the most forward of the scarlets. | ||
Bell’s Life in Tasmania 26 July 3/5: One straight going scarlet had the ill luck to lose his horse, from the latter falling at a stiff fence. |