Dark & Interesting Histories Behind 22 Common Sayings
Language is a fascinating aspect of human culture, often reflecting the history and values of the times. Many of the sayings we use today have origins that are not as innocent or whimsical as they may seem.
Here’s a look at some famous sayings with rather dark or surprising pasts.
1. “Cat Got Your Tongue?”
The phrase “Cat got your tongue?” is a curious expression that has intrigued many with its origins. While the exact beginning of this saying is unclear, it is widely believed to have emerged in the mid-19th century. The earliest written instance appears in an 1881 edition of Bayou’s Monthly, where it was used in the context of children’s speech. However, the phrase’s roots may extend further back in time.
One theory suggests a connection to the English Royal Navy, where sailors who were flogged with a cat o’ nine tails whip might be left speechless from the ordeal, hence the saying.
Another hypothesis points to medieval superstitions about witches and their black cat familiars, believed to steal one’s tongue to prevent the reporting of witchcraft.
Additionally, some link the phrase to ancient Egyptian reverence for cats, where speaking ill could lead to severe punishment, represented by the loss of one’s tongue and having it fed to cats.
Despite these theories, there is no concrete evidence to confirm any of these origins definitively. The phrase remains an example of the colourful language used to describe someone who is unexpectedly silent.
2. “The Walls Have Ears”
The saying “The Walls Have Ears” is a cautionary adage that dates back to ancient times, warning that private conversations may not be as confidential as one might think.
The earliest recorded use of this phrase in English appeared in the 1600s, but its origins are believed to be much older, potentially dating back to around 400 B.C. The phrase is often associated with the story of Dionysius I of Syracuse, a Greek tyrant known for his paranoia. He reportedly constructed a cave, known as the Ear of Dionysius, designed to amplify the whispers of prisoners so that he could overhear them from his palace above. This tale exemplifies the idiom’s meaning, suggesting that one should always be mindful of eavesdroppers.
Over the centuries, similar stories have emerged, such as the use of secret listening posts in the Louvre Palace by the De Medici family during the 1500s, further cementing the phrase’s cautionary message in European culture.
Today, “The Walls Have Ears” serves as a reminder to be prudent with one’s words, as the risk of being overheard is ever-present.
3. “Bury the Hatchet”
The phrase “bury the hatchet” originates from a peace-making tradition among Native American tribes, particularly the practice of burying weapons as a symbolic gesture of peace. This idiom, which now means to settle disputes and establish peace, has its roots in the early interactions between Native Americans and European settlers.
The earliest recorded mention of this practice in English dates back to the 17th century, but it is believed to have been a part of Native American culture long before European settlement. The act of burying the hatchet was a significant and binding ceremony for the tribal chiefs when they came to a peace agreement, signifying a sincere commitment to peace. Over time, this powerful symbol of reconciliation has been adopted into common language, reminding us of the importance of resolving conflicts and coming together in harmony.
The historical context of this phrase highlights the rich cultural practices of Native American tribes and their influence on modern expressions.
4. “Cold Feet”
The phrase “cold feet” is a colloquial expression that describes a feeling of fear or apprehension that leads to a loss of courage or a withdrawal from a commitment.
The earliest known use of the phrase in the context of losing nerve dates back to the late 19th century. It appears in Stephen Crane’s novel “Maggie: A Girl of the Streets” from 1896, where characters express reluctance to engage in a situation by saying they “got cold feet.”
The idiom may have roots in the Italian phrase “aver freddo ai piedi,” which translates to “to be cold in the feet” and was used to describe a person without money, possibly alluding to the idea of not being able to afford proper footwear and thus getting cold feet. This Italian expression appeared in the play “Volpone” from 1605, but it did not carry the same meaning of losing courage that it does today.
Another theory suggests that the phrase came from the German “kalte Füße bekommen,” which translates directly to “to get cold feet” and shares the same figurative meaning of losing courage. This German idiom was noted in an English translation of the German novel “Seed-time and Harvest” from 1878, where a character comments on leaving a poker table due to bad luck and presumably, cold feet.
The transition from these European phrases to the American English usage seems to have occurred in the late 19th century, with the gambling connotations possibly influencing the phrase’s adoption into common language. It’s interesting to note that while the phrase is now widely used to describe a loss of nerve, its origins do not necessarily point to a negative or “horrible” beginning, but rather to a colourful linguistic evolution across cultures and time periods.
In contemporary usage, “cold feet” is often associated with nervousness before significant life events, such as weddings or major decisions, and has lost any negative connotations it might have had in the past. Instead, it’s become a common way to express natural human hesitancy in the face of important choices, encapsulating the universal experience of doubt and uncertainty in a simple, relatable idiom.
5. “Big Wig”
The phrase “Big Wig” has a rather grandiose origin, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, when it was a common sight to see European nobility and people of high social status donning large, elaborate wigs as a symbol of their wealth and importance.
The trend began in France, particularly during the reign of Louis XIII, who, having gone prematurely bald, adopted the fashion of wearing a wig. This fashion statement quickly escalated during the time of Louis XIV, The Sun King, where wigs became not just a symbol of status but also of power and authority. These wigs were not just any ordinary hairpieces; they were expensive, required meticulous care, and were often so large that they needed internal scaffolding to maintain their shape.
As the wigs grew in size, so did their association with power and influence, leading to the term “big-wig” being coined to describe someone of great importance or high status. It’s a term that has stuck through the centuries, evolving from its literal sense to a metaphorical one, where today, a “big wig” refers to an influential person, often within a specific organization or field. The phrase was first recorded in print in the 1780s, explicitly used in relation to the British judiciary, who continue the tradition of wearing wigs in court to this day.
6. “Caught Red-Handed”
The phrase “caught red-handed” has a vivid and somewhat grisly history, rooted deeply in legal terminology and folklore.
Its origins can be traced back to 15th-century Scotland, where it was used in the context of someone being caught with blood on their hands, literally red-handed, from an act of murder or poaching. This term was a direct and unmistakable indicator of guilt, as the blood was the evidence of the crime.
The earliest recorded usage of the term “red hand” appears in the Scottish Acts of Parliament of James I in 1432. Over time, the phrase evolved in the Scottish legal system, often cited as “apprehended redhand” or “taken with redhand,” indicating someone caught in the very act of committing a crime.
The transition from “red hand” to “red-handed” is credited to the influence of Sir Walter Scott’s Ivanhoe, published in 1819, which helped popularise the term. Scott, known for his deep interest in Scottish history and culture, likely encountered the term “redhand” and adapted it in his writing. The phrase “caught red-handed” was further cemented into the English language through its use in George Alfred Lawrence’s novel “Guy Livingstone” in 1857, which brought the term to a wider audience.
Interestingly, the phrase has no connection to the expression “to paint the town red,” despite the similar imagery of red hands. Both phrases were coined independently of each other. The enduring power of the phrase “caught red-handed” lies in its graphic literalism; it conjures a clear image of someone caught in the act, with evidence that cannot be denied. It’s a testament to the phrase’s impact that it remains a common part of our language today, used to describe being caught in the act of any wrongdoing, with clear evidence on display.
7. “Raining Cats and Dogs”
The phrase “raining cats and dogs” is steeped in folklore and has several proposed origins, none of which can be proven definitively.
One theory suggests that during heavy storms in 17th-century England, the streets would become so flooded that animals, including cats and dogs, could be swept away by the runoff. This led to the macabre sight of deceased animals in the streets post-storm, perhaps giving rise to the expression.
Another explanation points to the thatched roofs of the time, where small animals might seek refuge and be washed away during severe weather, creating the illusion that it was raining cats and dogs.
Some have even linked the phrase to Norse mythology, where dogs were associated with the god Odin and his storms, while cats were linked to heavy rains. Despite the grim imagery these theories evoke, the exact origin of the phrase remains a mystery, shrouded in the mists of time and oral tradition.
8. “Blood Is Thicker Than Water”
The phrase “Blood is thicker than water,” commonly understood to mean that family ties are stronger than other relationships, has a rich and somewhat debated history.
The earliest recorded instance of this proverb in English dates back to the 12th century, appearing in German texts. It was later found in Allan Ramsay’s collection of Scottish proverbs in 1737, which suggests a Gaelic origin. Sir Walter Scott popularized the saying in his novel “Guy Mannering” in 1815. Over time, the phrase has been subject to various interpretations and some speculation about its original meaning.
A common misconception is that the phrase originally meant “the blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb,” implying that bonds formed by choice are stronger than those of birth. However, this interpretation lacks historical evidence and is considered a modern reinterpretation rather than an original form of the proverb.
The true origins of the phrase may never be fully uncovered, as with many idiomatic expressions that evolve over time and across cultures. What remains clear is that the saying has resonated with many, reflecting the universal importance of familial bonds throughout history.
9. “Don’t Look A Gift Horse In The Mouth”
The saying “Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth” carries a message of gratitude and humility, advising one to accept gifts without scrutinising their value or questioning the giver’s intent.
This phrase has a rich history, dating back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated from the practice of determining a horse’s age and health by examining its teeth, which would be considered rude if the horse was a gift.
The earliest recorded usage of this idiom is found in the writings of St. Jerome in 400 AD, in his commentary on the Letter to the Ephesians. The phrase was introduced to the English language in 1546 through John Heywood’s collection of proverbs, which played a significant role in popularizing many sayings during the Renaissance.
The proverb advises us to accept gifts graciously without assessing their value, as doing so implies ingratitude.
Its ancient origin is suggested to come from St. Jerome’s Latin text, and in English, it appeared in John Heywood’s work, which was a collection of proverbs from the time. Heywood’s role in the development of English literature was notable, as he was employed at the courts of Henry VIII and Mary I as a singer, musician, and playwright. His collection of proverbs includes many that are still in use today, reflecting the timeless nature of this wisdom.
10. “Barking Up The Wrong Tree”
The phrase “barking up the wrong tree” has an interesting origin that dates back to early 19th-century America. It is believed to have come from the practice of hunting with dogs.
When hunting raccoons or other tree-dwelling animals, dogs would often bark at the base of a tree, indicating that their quarry was aloft. However, if the animal had moved to another tree without the dog noticing, the dog would be barking up the wrong tree, hence making a mistake.
This literal scenario transitioned into a metaphorical idiom used to describe a person who is mistaken or pursuing a futile course of action.
The earliest known printed citation of the phrase is in James Kirke Paulding’s “Westward Ho!” from 1832, where it was used to describe a deliberate deception of a bookmaker. Over time, the phrase has been widely adopted in the English language to suggest that someone is misguided in their efforts or has misunderstood something.
11. “Turn a Blind Eye”
The phrase “turn a blind eye” often conveys the act of ignoring certain facts or realities, and its origins are indeed quite fascinating.
It is commonly associated with Admiral Horatio Nelson, who is said to have used the gesture during the naval Battle of Copenhagen in 1801. Nelson, who had been blinded in one eye, supposedly put his telescope to his blind eye, stating that he did not see the signal to withdraw. This act of deliberate ignorance allowed him to continue fighting, leading to a British victory.
However, the phrase’s first recorded use in the form we understand today was by Martha Wilmot in 1823, suggesting that it was already a well-understood concept at the time. The story of Nelson, whether entirely accurate or not, has cemented the phrase in the English language as a metaphor for intentional disregard.
12. “Bite the Bullet”
The phrase “bite the bullet,” often used to suggest enduring a painful or otherwise unpleasant situation with courage, has a rather grim origin. It is believed to date back to the days before modern anaesthesia, where patients undergoing surgery would bite on a bullet to distract from the pain. This practice was especially noted during wartime when soldiers had to endure surgeries in the battlefield without the benefit of pain relief. The bullet, being soft enough not to break teeth, served as a makeshift device to focus one’s attention and avoid screaming or biting the tongue.
The first recorded use of the phrase in a figurative sense appears in Francis Grose’s “Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue” in 1796, where it was associated with soldiers maintaining silence while being disciplined with the cat-o’-nine-tails. They would chew a bullet to avoid crying out, thus the term “bite the bullet” came to signify enduring pain without complaint.
Rudyard Kipling’s 1891 novel “The Light That Failed” is credited with the first literary use of the phrase in the idiomatic sense we understand today, which means to show fortitude or courage in the face of difficulty. The phrase has since become a common metaphor for accepting and facing unavoidable hardship with bravery and stoicism.
13. “One for The Road”
The phrase “One for the road,” which commonly refers to a final drink before departing, has a rather innocuous origin, contrary to the grim tales that have circulated.
It is a 20th-century saying, first found in print in the 1930s, and is associated with the practice of having a last drink before embarking on a journey. The phrase does not have its roots in any medieval or Dickensian tradition, nor does it originate from a practice of offering condemned felons a final drink on their way to execution.
Instead, it reflects a simple tradition among travellers who, in earlier times, had to carry provisions for their journeys, including a drink ‘for the road.’ This phrase has evolved over time and is now a part of common language, often used in a light-hearted manner among friends.
Despite its widespread use, it’s important to note that with the advent of modern transportation, particularly cars, the phrase has taken on a new level of responsibility, reminding us of the importance of moderation and safety when it comes to drinking and driving.
14. “Honeymoon”
The term “honeymoon” has a history that is rich and, contrary to its current romantic connotations, quite pragmatic at its roots.
The word itself is believed to have originated from the Old English “hony moone.” “Hony” refers to the sweetness of a new marriage, and “moone” indicates the fleeting amount of time this sweetness would last. It was a cautionary label, suggesting that the initial period of marital bliss was not expected to last indefinitely.
The first recorded description of the word dates back to 1542, when Samuel Johnson described it as a period of tenderness and pleasure that wanes like the moon after it is full. This notion was echoed in 1552 by Richard Huloet, who acknowledged the term’s proverbial use to describe the phase of marriage when love appears to be at its peak before it begins to diminish.
The concept also has ties to the 5th-century tradition where newlyweds drank mead during their first moon of marriage. Mead, a honey-based alcoholic beverage, was thought to have aphrodisiac properties and was consumed to bless the couple with fertility and happiness. This practice is one of the speculated origins of the term, linking the sweetness of honey to the sweetness of the marriage.
In 19th-century Britain, the honeymoon was a period when couples went on a bridal tour, visiting friends and family who could not attend the wedding ceremony, rather than the private getaway it represents today.
While the term “honeymoon” might have begun with a hint of cynicism regarding the durability of marital bliss, it has evolved over time. Today, it is celebrated as a special time for couples to enjoy the beginning of their married life together, often marked by a romantic vacation. The historical context of the term adds a layer of depth to its modern interpretation, reminding us that while the sweetness of the honeymoon phase may be transient, it is a cherished and integral part of the marital journey.
15. “White Elephant”
The term “white elephant” has its origins in the historic kingdoms of Southeast Asia, where white elephants were considered sacred and symbolic of royal power.
The phrase itself has evolved over time, initially referring to actual albino elephants that were revered and considered omens of prosperity. However, these rare creatures were also a significant financial burden due to their special care requirements. The kings of Siam (now Thailand) would gift these white elephants to courtiers who had fallen out of favour. While the gift was a sign of royal blessing, it was also a clever punishment; the recipient was obliged to maintain the elephant in a manner befitting its status, which could lead to financial ruin. This practice turned the white elephant into a symbol of a burdensome or costly possession that is difficult to maintain and impossible to dispose of, leading to the modern idiomatic expression.
The term has since been adopted in the English language to describe any expensive but problematic thing that cannot be easily disposed of, and whose cost (particularly that of maintenance) is out of proportion to its usefulness or worth.
16. “Break A Leg”
The phrase “Break a leg,” often heard in the theatrical world as a substitute for “good luck,” carries a fascinating blend of superstition, history, and language evolution. Its origins are not definitively known, but several theories exist.
One popular belief is that the saying is an inversion of the traditional good luck wish, operating under the superstition that wishing someone good luck would actually bring bad luck. This theory suggests that by wishing someone something ostensibly negative, like breaking a leg, the opposite would occur.
Another theory posits that the phrase originated from the German expression “Hals- und Beinbruch,” which was used among German pilots during World War II and translates to “break your neck and leg.” This was likely a banter-style wish similar to “break a leg” in English.
In the world of dance, particularly among professional dancers, the traditional saying is not “break a leg” but rather the French word “merde,” which literally translates to a less polite term. This reflects the unique cultural practices within different performing arts communities.
The phrase “break a leg” is also thought to have non-theatrical origins, with some suggesting that it was originally documented without specifically theatrical associations.
The theatrical use of “break a leg” is relatively recent, becoming prevalent in the American theatre scene in the early 20th century. It may have been influenced by German-speaking Jewish immigrants entering the American entertainment industry after the First World War.
The phrase has since become a staple in the performing arts lexicon, embodying the quirky and superstitious nature of theatre culture.
While the exact origin remains a topic of debate, the phrase “break a leg” has undoubtedly become a cherished part of theatrical tradition, symbolising the camaraderie and shared understanding among performers.
17. “Give the Cold Shoulder”
The phrase “give the cold shoulder” has a rather intriguing history, steeped in social cues and literary references. Contrary to the common folk etymology that suggests it originated from the practice of serving an unwelcome guest a cold shoulder of mutton, the true origins are more symbolic.
The first known use of the phrase in print can be traced back to Sir Walter Scott’s novel ‘The Antiquary’ in 1816, where it was used to describe a display of coldness or indifference. This metaphorical usage of the phrase was to convey aloofness and disdain, rather than any culinary practice.
The phrase gained popularity in the 19th century and was used by Charles Dickens in ‘The Old Curiosity Shop’ in 1840, further cementing its place in the English lexicon.
The idea that it was related to food seems to be a case of folk etymology, with no historical evidence to support the claim. Instead, the phrase is understood to be a figurative expression of turning one’s back on someone, an act of ignoring or shunning them. This interpretation aligns with the Latin phrase “dederunt umerum recedentem” from the Book of Nehemiah in the Vulgate Bible, which translates to “stubbornly they turned their backs on you” and is considered to be a source of the expression.
Over time, “giving the cold shoulder” has evolved into a common idiom used to describe the act of deliberately ignoring someone or showing a lack of interest in their presence. It’s a phrase that captures the essence of human social interaction, where non-verbal cues can speak volumes more than words ever could. The cold shoulder, therefore, is not just a piece of meat or a rude gesture, but a linguistic bridge to our social instincts and historical modes of communication. It’s a testament to how language evolves and adapts, carrying with it the stories and customs of times past.
18. “Riding Shotgun”
The phrase “riding shotgun” has a colourful history that intertwines with the lore of the American Wild West. Contrary to popular belief, the term did not originate during the stagecoach era but was popularized much later by Hollywood’s portrayal of the Wild West.
The phrase refers to the practice of an armed guard sitting next to the driver, ready to use a shotgun to protect the stagecoach from bandits or other dangers. This image was cemented in the public’s imagination through films like the 1939 classic “Stagecoach” and the 1954 movie “Riding Shotgun”. However, the earliest print reference to “riding shotgun” in real life dates back to a 1919 article in The Ogden Examiner, long after stagecoaches had fallen out of regular use.
The term then transitioned into popular culture, eventually being used to call dibs on the front passenger seat in a car. Interestingly, the term saw a resurgence after the September 11 attacks, when air marshals began flying on commercial flights to provide security, thus bringing the term full circle back to its protective roots.
19. “Paint the Town Red”
The phrase “to paint the town red” is commonly understood to mean engaging in a lively and raucous celebration, often involving going out to multiple establishments or parties. The origins of this saying are somewhat murky, with several theories and anecdotes suggesting different historical events that might have inspired it.
One popular story attributes the phrase to the Marquis of Waterford, known for his wild behaviour, who in 1837, along with his friends, allegedly ran amok in the town of Melton Mowbray, painting buildings red. This event is well-documented, but there is no printed record of the phrase until 1883 in the United States, casting doubt on this direct connection.
Other theories suggest the phrase may have originated from the red-light districts or from the flushed faces of people who have consumed too much alcohol.
Despite the various stories, the exact origin of the phrase remains uncertain, with no conclusive evidence to pinpoint its beginnings.
The expression has evolved over time and is now used in a more benign context, often simply implying a night out full of fun and entertainment. While the phrase’s beginnings may hint at a more rowdy and potentially destructive past, today it symbolizes celebration and enjoyment.
The transformation of the phrase’s connotation over time reflects the dynamic nature of language and how cultural perceptions can alter the meaning of words and expressions.
Regardless of its true origins, “to paint the town red” has become a colourful part of the English lexicon, encapsulating the human spirit of revelry and the desire to occasionally let loose and enjoy life’s pleasures.
20. “Rule of Thumb”
The phrase “rule of thumb” has a contentious history, often mistakenly associated with a supposed old English law that allowed a man to beat his wife with a stick no thicker than his thumb, making it a legal standard for domestic abuse. However, this interpretation is a myth.
The term actually dates back to the 17th century and was used in various trades to denote a rough measurement equivalent to the width or length of a thumb. It was a practical method for estimation, based on experience rather than precise measurement.
The misconception regarding its association with wife-beating seems to have originated from a misattributed statement by the 18th-century judge Sir Francis Buller, which led to satirical commentary and cartoons but was not based on any legal reality. The phrase was later erroneously linked to domestic violence in the 1970s, further perpetuated by law journals and reports, despite its true origins in practical measurement.
It’s important to clarify these origins to dispel the myths surrounding the phrase and to understand the historical context of idiomatic expressions. The “rule of thumb,” in its correct sense, is a testament to human ingenuity in devising simple methods for complex tasks, long before the advent of modern tools and technology.
21. “Mad as a Hatter”
The phrase “mad as a hatter” has a rather dark and unfortunate origin, which dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries. During this time, mercury nitrate was used in the hat-making process to turn fur into felt, a key material for hats.
This exposure to mercury caused a range of symptoms in hatters, including tremors, speech problems, emotional instability, and hallucinations, collectively known as “hatter’s shakes” or “mad hatter disease.”
The term “mad as a hatter” became a common way to describe someone who was behaving erratically or seemed mentally unstable, not knowing that it was actually a reference to the tragic effects of mercury poisoning on those in the hat-making industry.
The phrase was popularized in the English language and eventually found its way into literature, most notably through the character of the Hatter in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” However, the character’s portrayal, while eccentric, does not delve into the grim reality of the condition that afflicted real-life hatters.
The use of mercury in millinery was eventually banned, but the phrase remains in use, detached from its original context and unaware of the suffering it once signified.
22. “Saved by the Bell”
The phrase “Saved by the Bell” has a rather grim association with the fear of being buried alive.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, the dread of premature burial was so pervasive that it led to the invention of “safety coffins” equipped with bells. The idea was that if someone was mistakenly buried while still alive, they could ring the bell attached to their coffin to signal for rescue.
Historical figures like George Washington and Frederic Chopin expressed fears of being buried alive, with Chopin’s last words reportedly being a plea to ensure he wasn’t interred prematurely.
Despite these fears, there’s no evidence that anyone was ever actually saved by such a bell.
In reality, the saying “Saved by the Bell” comes from the world of boxing, where a fighter on the verge of defeat could be rescued from a knockout by the ringing of a bell signalling the end of a round.
This term was first recorded in the late 19th century and became part of common language, referring to any last-minute reprieve from a difficult situation.
These sayings remind us that language is not just a tool for communication but also a repository for history, often carrying the weight of past practices and beliefs. While the origins of some phrases may be grim, understanding them provides a deeper insight into the complexities of human history and the evolution of language.
It’s a testament to the resilience of words and their ability to transcend time, even when their beginnings are rooted in darker times. As we continue to use these sayings in modern times, perhaps it’s worth reflecting on their original meanings and the lessons they carry forward.
© Colin Lawson Books