THE DICTIONARY OF PHRASE AND FABLE BY E. COBHAM BREWER
FROM THE NEW AND ENLARGED EDITION OF 1894

Abiala Wife of Makambi; African deities. She holds a pistol in her hand, and is greatly feared. Her aid is implored in sickness.

Able-bodied Seaman A sailor of the first class. A crew is divided into three classes: (1) able seamen, or skilled sailors, termed A.B.; (2) ordinary seamen; and (3) boys, which include green-hands, or inexperienced men, without regard to age or size.

To Sham Abraham. To pretend illness or distress, in order to get off work.