Chapter Astolat to Atomic Philosophy of A by Brewer's Phrase & Fable

Asylum means, literally, a place where pillage is forbidden (Greek, a (negative), sulon, right of pillage). The ancients set apart certain places of refuge, where the vilest criminals were protected, both from private and public assaults.

Asyniur The goddesses of Asgard. The gods were called the Æsir, the singular of which is Asa.

At Strain at a gnat (Matt. xxiii. 24) Greek, di-aulizo, to strain off. Here "at" is an error, probably in the first instance typographical, for "out." "Out" is given in the Bible of 1603, and has been restored by the Revisers.

Ate (2 syl.). Goddess of vengeance and mischief. This goddess was driven out of heaven, and took refuge among the sons of men.

"With Atë by his side come not from hell,
Cry "Havoc," and let slip the dogs of war."
Shakespeare: Julius Caesar, iii. 1.

Atellanæ or Atellan Fables. Interludes in the Roman theatres, introduced from Atella, in Campania. The characters of Macchus and Bucco are the foundations of our Punch and Clown. (See Punch.)

Atergata A deity with the upper part like a woman and the lower part like a fish. She had a temple at Ascalon. (See Dagon.)

Athanasian Creed so called because it embodies the opinions of Athanasius respecting the Trinity. It was compiled in the fifth century by Hilary, Bishop of Arles.

In the Episcopal Prayer Book of America this creed is omitted.

Athelstane (3 syl.) surnamed "The Unready" (i.e. impolitic, unwise), thane of Conningsburgh. (Sir Walter Scott: Ivanhoe.)

Athenæum (the review so called) was founded by James Silk Buckingham in 1829. It was named after the institution founded by Hadrian, where works of art and learning were dedicated to Athene.

Athenian Bee Plato, a native of Athens, was so called because his words flowed with the sweetness of honey.

Athens The Modern Athens, i.e. Edinburgh. Willis says that its singular resemblance to Athens, approached from the Piræus, is very striking.

"An imitation Acropolis is commenced on the Calton Hill, and has the effect of the Parthenon. Hymettus is rather more lofty than the Pentland hills, and Pentelicus is farther off and grander than Arthur's Seat; but the old Castle of Edinburgh is a noble feature, superbly magnificent." - Pencillings.

Athens of Ireland. Belfast.

Athens of the New World. Boston, noted for its literary merit and institutions.

Athens of the West. Cordova, in Spain, was so called in the Middle Ages.

Athole Brose (Scotch). A compound of oatmeal, honey, and whisky.

At Home (An). A notification sent to friends that the lady who sends it will be at home on the day and at the hour specified, and will be glad to see the persons mentioned in the card of invitation. These "At homes" are generally held in an afternoon before dinner. Light refreshments are provided, and generally some popular games are introduced, occasionally music and dancing.

Not at Home. Not disengaged, or prepared for the reception of visitors; not in the house.