E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Shambles means benches
(Anglo-Saxon, scamel; Latin, scamnum, and the diminutive scamellum, a little bench). The benches or banks on which meat is exposed for sale. (See BANK.)
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“Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question.”—1 Cor. x. 25.
