It originated in African American Vernacular English in the mid-20th century and was used to describe someone who had charisma, confidence, and a certain charm or appeal. It is often used informally in casual conversations, particularly in discussions about someone's physical appearance or personal qualities. It is important to note that this idiom is informal and may not be appropriate in formal or professional settings.

What is the origin of the idiom "have it going on" and when to use it?

to [have] (got|) it going on

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The phrase "belle of the ball" is believed to have originated in the 18th century in England, where it was used to describe the most beautiful and popular young woman at a dance or ball. The term "belle" is a French word meaning "beautiful," and it was commonly used in English to describe an attractive and charming woman. The phrase gained popularity in the 19th century and was commonly used in Victorian society to refer to a woman who was the center of attention and admiration at a social gathering. Today, it is still used to describe a woman who is the most beautiful and admired person at an event or gathering.

What is the origin of the idiom "the belle of the ball" and when to use it?

the [belle] of the ball

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The origin is not clear, but it is believed to have emerged in the early to mid-20th century. The phrase likely originates from the idea that someone who looks wealthy and well-dressed would be valued at a high price, such as one million dollars. Alternatively, it may have been influenced by the fact that a million dollars was a significant sum of money at the time and represented the ultimate level of wealth and success. The phrase has since become a common way to describe someone who looks exceptionally good or is dressed in an impressive manner.

What is the origin of the idiom "look a million dollars" and when to use it?

to [look|feel] (like|) a million dollars

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The phrase "turn heads" originated in the mid-20th century and refers to the act of being so physically attractive that people are compelled to turn their heads and take notice. The phrase likely emerged in the fashion and modeling industry, where the goal was to create striking images that would turn heads and capture attention. Today, "turn heads" is a common idiom used to describe someone who is physically attractive or who is dressed in an eye-catching way.

What is the origin of the idiom "turn heads" and when to use it?

to [turn] heads

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The phrase "brown as a berry" is believed to have originated in England in the 17th century, when having a tan or darker complexion was associated with spending time outdoors and engaging in physical labor. Berries that are ripe and ready to eat are typically brown in color, and the comparison to a brown berry may have been a way to describe someone whose skin was browned or darkened by exposure to the sun. The phrase became more widely used in the 19th century, particularly in the context of describing individuals who had spent time in tropical regions or who had otherwise acquired a deep tan. Today, the phrase is still commonly used to describe someone who has a dark or sun-kissed complexion.

What is the origin of the idiom "brown as a berry" and when to use it?

(as|) brown as a berry

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The origin of the idiom "crowning glory" can be traced back to the Bible, specifically to the Book of Corinthians, where it is written: "But if a woman has long hair, it is her glory. For long hair is given to her as a covering." Over time, the phrase has come to refer specifically to a person's hair, and it is often used to describe hair that is particularly beautiful, healthy, or well-styled.

What is the origin of the idiom "crowning glory" and when to use it?

crowning glory

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The idiom "carrot top" originated in the early 19th century and was used to describe a person with red or orange hair, likening the hair color to the top or foliage of a carrot. In modern usage, "carrot top" is typically employed as a colloquial or slang term to refer to someone with red or orange hair. It can be used playfully or teasingly, but it's important to be mindful of its potential to be seen as derogatory or offensive by some. As with any idioms or slang, it's important to use "carrot top" with awareness of the context and the feelings of others.

What is the origin of the idiom "carrot top" and when to use it?

carrot top

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The phrase "bad hair day" is believed to have originated in the United States in the 1980s. The expression is used to convey a sense of humor, self-deprecation, or light-heartedness when discussing one's hair looking messy, unmanageable, or looking less than desirable.

What is the origin of the idiom "bad hair day" and when to use it?

bad hair day

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The origin of this phrase is not entirely clear, but it may have originated in the early 20th century, when it became fashionable for people to be more concerned about their appearance and personal hygiene. It was considered improper to appear disheveled or unkempt in public, and "letting oneself go" was seen as a sign of laziness or lack of self-respect. It is typically used in a negative or critical manner to comment on a decline in someone's overall well-being or appearance. It can be used in various situations, such as when discussing someone's appearance, health, grooming, or lifestyle choices.

What is the origin of the idiom "let oneself go" and when to use it?

to [let] {oneself} go

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The origin of the idiom "wild and woolly" dates back to the American frontier era in the late 1800s when the western region of the United States was still largely undeveloped and inhabited by pioneers, outlaws, and Native American tribes. At that time, people in the western territories would often wear clothing made of wool and other natural materials that were not always well-maintained, giving them a rugged and unkempt appearance. The phrase "wild and woolly" became popularized during this time as a way to describe the rough and lawless nature of the western frontier.

What is the origin of the idiom "wild and woolly" and when to use it?

wild and woolly

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The origin of this phrase is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have emerged in the UK in the 19th century. At that time, it was common for domestic cats to bring in small animals they had caught as gifts for their owners, often leaving the dead or injured creatures on the doorstep. This behavior may have led to the association of cats with unclean or unpleasant things, which in turn led to be used in a humorous or teasing way of a person who looks dirty or disheveled.

What is the origin of the idiom "look like something the cat brings in" and when to use it?

to [look|feel] like something the cat [bring|drag] in

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The idiom "not a hair out of place" dates back to the early 19th century, with "out of place" itself emerging in the 1520s. It became especially common during the Victorian era, when strict social norms made personal grooming a visible marker of discipline and respectability. Use this idiom to describe someone whose appearance is impeccably neat and well-groomed—literally as if every single hair is perfectly positioned, or metaphorically to indicate flawless order in any setting. It works well for formal occasions (weddings, interviews), for people who are naturally meticulous, or for highlighting a contrast when someone remains perfectly tidy despite challenging conditions like wind, long travel, or stress.

What is the origin of the idiom "not a hair out of place" and when to use it?

{not|never} {have|} a hair out of place

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Discover how English idioms like "turn heads" and "wild and woolly" relate to physical appearance and style in English.

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