Tag Archives: etymology

Do You Know The Origin of These Words and Phrases?

Posted on June 16, 2016 by Regina Jeffers

Three Sheets to the Wind – Urban Dictionary defines this phrase to mean “to be explicitly drunk; inebriated.” The origin is likely found in practicality: Sheets actually refer to the ropes that are used to secure a ship’s sail. If the … Continue reading →

Posted in Age of Chaucer, Canterbury tales, etymology, history, Jane Austen, real life tales, tall tales, word origins, word play, writing | Tagged , , , , , | 4 Comments

Do You Know the Origins of These Words and Phrases?

Posted on March 6, 2015 by Regina Jeffers

Iron Curtain – This phrase was coined after World War II by Prime Minister Winston Churchill of Great Britain to describe the rise of Russian influence over Eastern Europe. Churchill found the rigid censorship of the citizenry and the closing … Continue reading →

Posted in British history, Great Britain, Uncategorized, word play | Tagged , , , | 1 Comment

The Lovely World of the English Language: Do You Know the Origin of These Words and Phrases?

Posted on January 8, 2015 by Regina Jeffers

Nodcock ~ From the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), this is one of many words meaning “fool or idiot” It dates back to the 1500’s. Synonyms include “noddypoop, noddypoll, and niddicock.” [I wish I had known this word when a gentleman told me I … Continue reading →

Posted in etymology | Tagged , , , | 4 Comments