Brewer's: Priscian's Head

To break Priscian's head (in Latin, “Diminuere Prisciani caput”). To violate the rules of grammar. Priscian was a great grammarian of the fifth century, whose name is almost synonymous with grammar.

“Priscian's head is often bruised without remorse.” —P. Thompson.

And held no sin so deeply red As that of breaking Priscian's head.

Butler: Hudibras, Pt. ii. 2.

Priscillanists Followers of Priscillian, a Spaniard; an heretical sect which sprang up in Spain in the fourth century. They were a branch of the Manichæans.

Related Content Allusions Foreign Words and Phrases Latin and Greek Word Elements Names: Their Origins and Meanings Old Testament Names Mythology Ancient Greek Literature & Mythology The Bible (King James version) The Koran (translation by J. M. Rodwell) Shakespeare's Plays Tales from Shakespeare (Charles and Mary Lamb) Frequently Misspelled Words Frequently Mispronounced Words Easily Confused Words Writing & Language