Reference > Brewer’s Dictionary > Jack-a-napes or Jackanapes = Jack of apes.

 Jack-a-Lantern (A).Jack-Amend-All. 
CONTENTS · BIBLIOGRAPHIC RECORD
E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
 
Jack-a-napes or Jackanapes = Jack of apes.
 
An impertinent, vulgar prig. (See JEANNOT.)   1
   More likely, it is Jack and ape, formed on the model of Jack-ass, a stupid fool.   2
        “I will teach a scurvy jackanape priest to meddle or make.”—Shakespeare: Merry Wives of Windsor, i. 4.
 


 Jack-a-Lantern (A).Jack-Amend-All. 

 
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