ETYMOLOGY
of uncertain origin;
possibly from French haridelle (an old jade of a horse – 1558), (a woman (especially a servant) who is too weak to work – 1690) + a derivative suffix of uncertain origin)
EXAMPLE
“…Parret. Doest take me for a Harridan, or a Cuffey? ha!
Owmuch. I believe thee a very obliging Creature, truely.
Parret. I won’t be believed an obliging Creature by ne’re a Sir Fopling of you all, the Court know me a Creature of Heavens special Handy-work, and if I live to see the City, Bow shall Ring with thy abominations, till Mary-Overs eccho thy lewdness: Tempt me to be an obliging Creature…”
From: Tunbridge-Wells, or, A days courtship a comedy
By Thomas Rawlins, a1670
Lexicophilia 