In the 19th century, saying a man had a “sneaking notion” mean he had affection for a woman but was too timid to reveal it. This is part of a complete episode.
Transcript of “Sneaking Notions”
I’ve been having a great time going through Bartlett’s 1848 Dictionary of Americanisms.
Do you know what a sneaking notion is?
Sneaking notion?
-huh.
I don’t know.
An idea that slowly dawns on you?
That’s a good guess.
But to have a sneaking notion for a lady is to have a timid or concealed affection for her.
Oh, a sneaking notion.
Yeah.
I see.
Yeah, like you might not be able to work up the courage to talk to her, but you have a sneaking notion.
A sneaking notion.
I like it.
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