Priscian’s Head

To break Priscian’s head (in Latin, “Diminuĕre Prisciaʹni capʹut”). To violate the rules of grammar. Priscian was a great grammarian of the fifth century, whose name is almost synonymous with grammar.

“Priscian’s head is often bruised without remorse.”—P. Thompson.

“And held no sin so deeply red

As that of breaking Priscian’s head.”

Butler: Hudibras, pt. ii. 2.

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Entry taken from Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, edited by the Rev. E. Cobham Brewer, LL.D. and revised in 1895.