DCHP-1 Online
scalp ((n.)) † Hist. 
1a n. the hair and skin from the crown of the head, taken as a trophy.
See also: scalp-lock (def. 1) tophair
- 1743 (1949) If one of a family Dies . . . They put . . . a painted Stickup . . . with the sculp of their Enemies, when they go to warr, which no Indians whatsoever takes away.
- 1955 Whoever slew an enemy carried home the scalp for the victory dance, and thereafter enjoyed the privilege of wearing an eagle feather in his hair.
1b n. in raise (or lift) a scalp; of Indians, cut off a victim's scalp (def. 1a).
See also: scalp ((n.)) (def. 1a) scalp ((v.)) (def. 1)
- c1804 He then instantly pretends to make a circular incision with his knife around the head to raise the scalp, which he attempts to take with his teeth, after which he gives the whoop and dances around the circle.
- 1909 He'll lift his scalp, and make a monk of him.
1c n. Figurative uses.
- 1884 The HERALD is not satisfied with condemning the mining regulations in toto but is after Mr. Hilliard's scalp.
- 1912 He could not win, of course, for McGee, the champion of the city police force, had many scalps at his girdle.
- 1955 . . . for the fans who have been "crying for their scalps" all winter, here is your chance to show us that you can do a better job.
2 n. Nfld See sculp ((n.)) 1842 quote.
See also: sculp ((n.)) (def. 2)
- 1743 (1949) If one of a family Dies . . . They put . . . a painted Stickup . . . with the sculp of their Enemies, when they go to warr, which no Indians whatsoever takes away.