1. [Supposed to be a cant word, from Betty, for Elizabeth, as such an instrument is also called Bess (i. e., Elizabeth) in the Canting Dictionary of 1725, and Jenny (i. e., Jane).]
A short bar used by thieves to wrench doors open. [Written also bettee.]
The powerful betty, or the artful picklock.Arbuthnot.
2. [Betty, nickname for Elizabeth.]
A name of contempt given to a man who interferes with the duties of women in a household, or who occupies himself with womanish matters.
3. A pear-shaped bottle covered round with straw, in which olive oil is sometimes brought from Italy; -- called by chemists a Florence flask. [U. S.] Bartlett.
Dating back to colonial America, betties are baked puddings made of layers of sugared and spiced fruit and buttered breadcrumbs. Though many fruits can be used, the most popular is Apple Brown Betty, made with sliced apples and brown sugar.