TREADMILL
(a device formerly used for driving machinery, consisting of a large wheel with steps fitted into its inner surface; it was turned by the weight of people or animals treading the steps)
NOUNS
► CAN’T-KEEP-STILL a prison treadmill → 1892 rhyming sl.
► CARE-GRINDER the treadmill → 1883 Eng. dial. & thieves’ sl.
► JACK-THE-SLIPPER the treadmill → 1896 sl. (Bk.)
► NEVER STAND STILL a prison treadmill → 1984 rhyming sl. (Bk.)
► UNIVERSAL STAIRCASE a prison treadmill → 19C sl.
► VERTICAL CARE-GRINDER the treadmill → 1883 thieves’ sl.
VERBS
► DANCE THE MILL to walk on the prison treadmill → M19 W. Indies sl.
Lexicophilia 