Dictionary entry

Abraham-man

Webster's Dictionary 1913

A″bra‐ham–man′ (�) orA″bram–man′(�), n. [Possibly in allusion to the parable of the beggar Lazarus in Luke xvi. Murray (New Eng. Dict.).] One of a set of vagabonds who formerly roamed through England, feigning lunacy for the sake of obtaining alms. Nares.

To sham Abraham, to feign sickness. Goldsmith.