Moustache

Fr. This word was originally derived from the Greek, adopted by the Italians, subsequently by the French, and then used generally. It literally means the hair which is allowed to grow upon the upper lip of a man; and which is better known amongst us by the familiar term whiskers. The French use it in a figurative sense, viz. Enlever sur la moustache, jusque sur la moustache de quelqu’un , Fr. To seize or take po e ion of any thing under the very nose, or in the presence of a person. Les ennemis sont venus pour défendre cette place, on la leur a enlevée sur la moustache. The enemy drew near to defend the town, but it was taken under their very whiskers. Donner sur la Moustache , Fr. To give a slap on the face.