Meaning of catch a Tartar | Babel Free

Definitions

1. To discover someone is much stronger, much more dangerous, or much more violent than they appeared at first, especially after laying hands on them
   archaic, colloquial
2. To fail in attempt to rob someone who turns out to be a stronger robber.
   obsolete
3. To discover someone who cannot be controlled or disposed of more generally.
   archaic, colloquial, figuratively

Examples

“Now thou hast got me for a Tartar, To make m 'gainst my will take quarter.”

“What a Tartar have I caught!”

“Tell him, if he try, he may catch a Tartar.”

“You must give up flirting, my boy, or if I mistake not, you'll find you've caught a Tartar.”

CEFR level