Large Number or Amount

The idiom "too much of a good thing" has been in use for centuries and is attributed to various sources, including Shakespeare. Its origin lies in the idea that an excess of something that is generally considered positive or beneficial can lead to negative consequences. It is used to caution against excessive or immoderate behavior, consumption, or indulgence in something that is typically seen as positive or enjoyable.

The idiom "baker's dozen" has its origins in medieval England when there were strict laws governing the weight and pricing of bread. To avoid the risk of underweight loaves and potential penalties, bakers would often add an extra loaf to a dozen (which originally meant 12) to ensure they met the required weight. This practice became customary, and "baker's dozen" came to mean 13 rather than 12. This expression is used to describe a group of 13 items or things. It is often used when someone wants to emphasize that they are providing a little extra or going beyond the expected quantity, similar to the original practice of bakers adding an extra loaf to a dozen.

The idiom "enough and to spare" is an idiomatic expression that has been used in English for centuries. Its origin lies in the natural desire for sufficiency and surplus. The word "enough" signifies an adequate or satisfactory quantity, and "to spare" emphasizes having more what is needed. This phrase conveys the idea of having more than enough to meet one's needs or requirements, often in a positive or favorable context.

The expression "like a hole in the head" is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. This phrase is used to express a strong sense of not wanting or needing something, often with a humorous or sarcastic tone. It is often employed when one wants to make it clear that a particular thing or situation is superfluous or would only bring trouble or inconvenience.

The idiom "the lion's share" has its origins in Aesop's fables, particularly the fable of "The Lion's Share." Aesop was an ancient Greek storyteller and fabulist. In this fable, a lion and several other animals hunted together and made a kill. The lion claimed the largest portion of the prey, justifying it by saying that he was the leader and the others owed him obedience. This idiomatic expression is used to refer to the largest or most significant portion of something, often in the context of dividing resources, responsibilities, or rewards.

The idiom "the more, the merrier" is a traditional English proverb with origins dating back to at least the 16th century. Its exact source is not pinpointed, but it reflects a sentiment that is shared in various cultures worldwide. This phrase is used to express the notion that adding more people to a gathering, activity, or celebration can make it livelier, more enjoyable, or more festive.

The idiom "there is more where that came from" is rooted in the idea that a particular resource or supply is not limited to what has already been used or consumed. This phrase is used to convey the idea that there is a sufficient or ample supply of something beyond what has already been used, seen, or experienced. It can be used in various contexts, such as offering more of a particular item or indicating that additional opportunities, resources, or benefits are available.

The idiom "thick on the ground" likely originated from observations of situations where something is so plentiful or numerous that it appears to be densely or abundantly distributed across a surface, similar to objects or people being close together on the ground. This expression is used to describe a situation where something is present in large quantities, readily available, or easily found.

The idiom "on the clock" likely originated from the practice of measuring the distance a vehicle has traveled using an odometer, where the mileage is displayed on the vehicle's dashboard like a clock. This expression is used to indicate the distance a vehicle has traveled, often measured in miles or kilometers. It is a casual and straightforward way to discuss a vehicle's mileage.

The phrase "for England" as an idiom likely originates from the nationalistic pride associated with representing or doing something in an exceptional or exaggerated manner for the benefit of England. It is often used in a colloquial, humorous, or sarcastic sense to emphasize the extent or intensity of an action.

The idiom "come out of the woodwork" originates from the idea of insects or pests, such as termites or cockroaches, emerging from hidden or concealed places like woodwork or cracks in the walls. This expression is used to describe situations where people or things appear or become noticeable, often suddenly and unexpectedly, after being hidden or unnoticed for a period. It can imply that these individuals or things are emerging in response to a particular event or opportunity.

The idiom "the better part of something" has been used in English for centuries and is rooted in the concept of comparing two or more parts of a whole, with one part being considered superior or more significant than the others. This phrase has been used in English for centuries and is rooted in the concept of comparing two or more parts of a whole, with one part being considered superior or more significant than the others.