A Closer Look: Lesson 8

The exact origin of "go ape" is unclear, but it likely emerged in the mid-20th century, drawing from the energetic behavior of apes and monkeys. It metaphorically describes people's enthusiastic or irrational behavior, reflecting the wild movements and exuberance observed in primates. This expression finds its place in various scenarios, such as concerts or sporting events where fans go into a frenzy of excitement, parties or celebrations where people let loose and engage in uninhibited behavior, or even in everyday situations when someone becomes overly enthusiastic or animated about something.

The idiom "bats in the belfry" originated in the United States in the late 19th century or early 20th century. It alludes to the image of bats roosting in the belfry (the tower of a church where bells are hung), which was often seen as an odd or crazy behavior for the bats. Over time, the idiom came to be used metaphorically to describe someone whose thoughts or behavior are considered eccentric, irrational, or mentally unstable.

The phrase "blind as a bat" came about due to a widespread belief that bats have weak eyesight. Although bats can see, they primarily use a special ability called echolocation, where they produce sounds that bounce back to help them navigate and locate objects in the dark. The idiom is used to describe someone with extremely poor eyesight or someone who seems visually impaired. It is often used figuratively to emphasize someone's inability to see or perceive something clearly. The phrase is not meant to be taken literally but serves as a humorous comparison to highlight someone's lack of visual acuity.

The phrase "busy as a beaver" is believed to have originated in the 18th century, and it is a reference to the industrious and hardworking nature of beavers, which are known for their ability to build dams and lodges. It is used to describe someone who is very busy and active, working hard to complete tasks and achieve goals. It is often used to convey a sense of admiration or respect for someone's work ethic.

The origin of the phrase "eager beaver" is believed to date back to the mid-20th century, specifically during World War II. It is thought to stem from the beaver's industrious nature and persistent work ethic. This idiom can be used to describe employees who are proactive and go above and beyond their regular duties, students who are highly motivated and actively participate in their studies, or anyone who consistently demonstrates a strong drive and eagerness to accomplish tasks or achieve goals.

The phrase "busy as a bee" is believed to have originated in the 16th century, and it is a reference to the industrious and hardworking nature of bees. It is used to describe someone who is very busy and active, working hard to complete tasks and achieve goals.

The origin of the idiom "a little bird" is rooted in the concept of birds as messengers or carriers of information. Throughout history, birds have been associated with secrets, whispers, and the transmission of news. In various cultures and folklore, birds are often depicted as symbols of communication or as intermediaries between humans and the divine. It is often used when sharing gossip, rumors, or intriguing details without revealing the specific person who provided the information.

The origin of the idiom "give someone the bird" is believed to date back to ancient Roman times, where an obscene gesture involving the middle finger, known as the "digitus impudicus" or "the impudent finger," was used as an offensive insult. This gesture persisted through various cultures and time periods, eventually evolving into the familiar act of raising the middle finger to convey contempt or rudeness. It often occurs in confrontational or heated situations, such as during arguments, disputes, or road rage incidents.

The origin of the phrase "snug as a bug in a rug" is uncertain, but it has been used for a long time to describe a state of complete comfort and coziness. This idiom is frequently used in casual conversations, especially when discussing comfort, relaxation, and the feeling of being snug and well-protected. It can be used in various settings, such as describing a cozy home, a comfortable seating arrangement, or even the satisfaction of a well-executed plan.

The idiom "cock-and-bull story" has its origins in the 17th century and refers to a fanciful, improbable, or exaggerated tale. The phrase likely comes from the names of two inns, the "Cock" and the "Bull," which were known for hosting travelers and entertaining them with extravagant and fictitious stories. Today, this expression is used to describe a narrative that is fabricated, unbelievable, or intended to deceive, often characterized by its lack of credibility.

The exact origin of the idiom "dumb bunny" is unclear and not definitively documented. However, it likely emerged from a combination of two elements: the term "dumb" meaning lacking intelligence, and the word "bunny" as a colloquial term for a rabbit, which is often associated with innocence or naivety. The idiom may have originated as a playful way to describe someone who is perceived as foolish or gullible, similar to the image of a bunny being seen as cute but not particularly smart. Over time, it has become a commonly used phrase in informal language to gently mock or tease someone's intelligence in a lighthearted manner.

The idiom "have butterflies in one's stomach" is believed to have originated from the physical sensations that people experience when they are anxious or nervous. The fluttering feeling in the stomach, similar to the fluttering of butterfly wings, is commonly associated with heightened emotions and anticipation. This phrase is used to convey a sense of nervous anticipation, acknowledging the emotional and physical reactions that can accompany important events or situations.

The idiom "the straw that breaks the camel's back" is a metaphorical expression used to describe the final, seemingly insignificant event or burden that causes a person or system to collapse or reach a breaking point. The origin of this idiom can be traced back to an ancient proverb that refers to the physical weight limit of a camel or donkey carrying a load. Beyond a certain point, even the addition of a small straw can cause the animal's back to break.

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.

The idiom "cat got your tongue" is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century and may be related to the idea that a cat's tongue is rough, which could symbolize difficulty in speaking or reluctance to do so. It is used to describe a situation where someone is unusually silent or unable to speak, often when they are expected to respond or provide an answer.

The idiom "not count one's chickens" dates back several centuries and is rooted in the agricultural practice of raising chickens and the anticipation of future hatchlings. The phrase advises against premature optimism or overconfidence, emphasizing the need to wait for a specific event or outcome to occur before celebrating or making assumptions. It cautions that unforeseen circumstances could prevent anticipated results from materializing.

The idiom "cunning as a fox" dates back to ancient times, where foxes were often associated with cleverness and craftiness in various cultures, including Greek, Roman, and Native American folklore. This phrase is used to describe someone who is extremely clever, sly, or shrewd in their actions or decisions.

The origin of the idiom "a frog in one's throat" is unclear, but it likely stems from the idea of someone having difficulty speaking or clearing their throat due to a hoarse or croaky voice. The comparison to a frog in the throat emphasizes the sound or sensation of the voice being affected. It is used to describe a temporary hoarseness or difficulty speaking due to irritation or a tickling sensation in the throat. It implies a vocal problem that affects the clarity or smoothness of one's voice.

The origin of the idiom "get one's goat" dates back to horse racing in the early 1900s. It was believed that horses would become agitated and perform poorly if their companion goat, which often kept them calm, was taken away. Thus, if someone wanted to sabotage a competitor's horse, they would "get their goat" by removing the calming influence, leading to a negative impact on the horse's performance. The phrase is commonly used in casual conversations to express discontent or irritation with a particular situation, behavior, or individual.

The idiom "treat someone or something with kid gloves" has its origins in the 19th century when gloves made from the soft leather of young goats (kid leather) were considered delicate and luxurious. These gloves required careful handling to prevent damage. It is often used when addressing situations where extra caution is needed, such as dealing with sensitive individuals or delicate matters.

The origin of "in hog heaven" is uncertain, but it likely stems from the association of hogs or pigs with indulgence and pleasure. Pigs' reputation for enjoying food and their voracious appetites may have inspired the idea that being in "hog heaven" means experiencing extreme happiness and contentment, akin to a pig's delight when provided with ample food or a favorable setting. It can be used to express a sense of ultimate happiness and contentment, suggesting that one is in a state of bliss or heaven-like pleasure.

The origin of the idiom "beat a dead horse" comes from the practice of beating a dead horse in order to make it move, which is obviously futile since the horse is already dead. Today, the idiom is commonly used in a figurative sense, to describe someone who is continuing to pursue a topic or argument that has already been resolved or has lost its relevance. The idiom implies that further effort or discussion is pointless and that it's time to move on to something else.

The idiom "from the horse's mouth" has its origins in horse racing, particularly in the practice of obtaining reliable information about a racehorse's condition and prospects directly from the horse's trainer or owner. To get accurate and trustworthy information about a horse, one would go directly to the source, which is the person most knowledgeable about the horse's capabilities and performance.

The origin of the idiom "like a chicken with its head cut off" can be traced back to the practice of slaughtering chickens for meat. After decapitation, a chicken's body can exhibit spasmodic movements due to nerve impulses and residual brain activity. This observation led to the development of such idiomatic expression. This expression can be used in various contexts, such as describing someone rushing around in a state of confusion, a team or organization dealing with a sudden crisis or unexpected event, or a person reacting impulsively without a clear plan.

The origin of the idiom "spring chicken" is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the late 18th or early 19th century. It may have originated from the idea that young chickens born in the springtime are generally considered tender and desirable for eating, compared to older chickens that may be tougher. Figuratively, "spring chicken" can be used to describe someone who is young or inexperienced, or to refer to something that is new, fresh, or recently created. It is often used in a light-hearted or playful manner to describe youthful qualities or characteristics.

The idiom "holy cow" is used to express surprise, confusion, or amazement. It is typically used in informal speech and is often used to add emphasis to a reaction or to convey a sense of wonder. The origin of this expression is not precisely documented, but it has been in use for many years and is thought to have evolved as a lighthearted way of expressing surprise without resorting to strong language.

The origin of the idiom "till the cows come home" can be traced back to rural and agricultural settings. In farming communities, cows are typically brought back to the barn or milking area at the end of the day. The phrase likely originated from the observation that cows often take their time to return home, moving slowly or grazing along the way. As a result, the expression came to represent a prolonged or indefinite period of time. It has been used in literature and everyday language for centuries to convey the idea of a lengthy or seemingly endless duration.

The idiom "dog eat dog" has its origins in the world of dogfighting, where dogs were pitted against each other in fights to the death. Today, the phrase is used more broadly to describe any situation where people are competing fiercely for limited resources or opportunities, and are willing to do whatever it takes to come out on top, regardless of the impact on others.

The idiom "one's dogs are barking" originated from early 20th-century American slang, specifically from the African American community. "Dogs" in this context refers to one's feet, and "barking" represents the discomfort or pain experienced in the feet after extended walking or standing. It is used to express that one's feet are hurting or feeling sore, typically from being tired or wearing uncomfortable shoes.

The idiom "sick as a dog/horse" has origins that date back to the 17th century. It is believed that the phrase emphasizes the perception that dogs and horses can become quite ill and display symptoms of sickness more visibly compared to other animals. It is used to describe someone who is very sick or experiencing extreme illness or discomfort. It conveys the idea that the person's sickness is severe, similar to the condition of a sick dog or horse.

The idiom "top dog" comes from the world of dog fighting, where the top dog was the most successful or dominant fighter. It is typically used to describe a person or organization that is dominant or successful in their field.

The idiom "dead duck" is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century, and was likely inspired by the image of a duck that has been shot and killed, and is therefore no longer of any use. This phrase is often used to describe someone or something that is doomed to fail or no longer has a chance of success.

The idiom "bald as an eagle" draws a comparison between someone who is completely bald and the baldness of an eagle. Eagles are known for their distinctive bald heads, where their feathers do not grow. This comparison emphasizes the complete lack of hair on the person's head. It is used to describe someone who has little to no hair on their head, typically due to natural hair loss or shaving. This idiom is often used in a descriptive or observational manner and can be used both affectionately and humorously.

The origin of the idiom "eagle eye" can be traced back to the natural characteristics and abilities of eagles. Eagles are known for their exceptional eyesight, which allows them to spot prey from great distances. The phrase "eagle eye" likely emerged as a metaphorical expression to describe someone who possesses a similar level of keen observation, attentiveness, or visual acuity. The comparison to an eagle's sharp vision emphasizes the person's ability to notice even the slightest details and be highly perceptive. While the specific origin of the idiom is unclear, it has become a commonly used expression in English language usage.

The idiom "have a memory like an elephant" originated from the observation that elephants possess exceptional memory capabilities. It focuses on the idea that someone has an exceptional ability to remember and recall information, experiences, or details with great accuracy and for an extended period. The phrase is primarily used to highlight the impressive memory capacity of elephants in popular culture, emphasizing the idea that individuals who possess a "memory like an elephant" are known for their remarkable recall and retention abilities.

The idiom "white elephant" traces its origin back to ancient Southeast Asia, where white elephants were considered sacred and were often owned by monarchs or held as a symbol of high status and prestige. It is used to describe something that is expensive to maintain, burdensome, or impractical, often referring to a possession or project that has little value or benefit.

The idiom "make sheep's eyes at someone" originates from the behavior of sheep. Sheep are known for their innocent and gentle nature, and when they are attracted to another sheep, they often gaze at them with soft, tender eyes. This behavior inspired the idiom, which was first recorded in the English language in the late 18th century. It is used to describe the act of giving someone a look of affection, adoration, or romantic interest. It suggests subtle expressions of romantic interest, typically in a lighthearted or playful manner.

The idiom "gentle as a lamb" has its origin in biblical and literary references. In the Bible, lambs are often associated with innocence and meekness, portraying a gentle and harmless nature. This expression is used to describe someone's kind and calm nature. It can be used in various contexts, such as describing a person's personality, behavior, or temperament. The phrase highlights their gentle and peaceful character in everyday conversations or when discussing their non-aggressive approach to interactions.

The exact origin of the idiom "in two shakes" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the mid-19th century. The phrase likely developed from the expression "a shake," which referred to a short period of time or a brief moment. The addition of "two" in the phrase "in two shakes" emphasizes an even shorter duration, further emphasizing the quickness or immediacy of an action. It is often used in informal conversations or casual writing to convey a sense of immediacy.

The idiom "make a mountain out of a molehill" originated in the 16th century and has been in use since then. This phrase draws upon the contrast between a tiny molehill, which is a small mound created by burrowing animals, and a towering mountain, highlighting the tendency of some individuals to amplify the importance of minor matters, often causing unnecessary worry or concern.

A grease monkey is an informal term used to describe a mechanic or someone who works with engines and machinery, often in a garage or workshop. The term comes from the idea that mechanics often get grease or oil on their hands and clothes while working on engines and other parts of vehicles. While the term may be used in a playful or affectionate way, it can sometimes be seen as a bit disrespectful, as it reduces the skilled work of a mechanic to a simple image of dirty labor.

The origin of the idiom "make a monkey of" can be traced back to British slang from the 19th century. The phrase likely evolved from earlier expressions such as "make a jackass of" or "make a fool of," which were used to describe situations where someone embarrassed or humiliated another person. This phrase is used to describe the act of embarrassing or ridiculing someone by making them appear foolish, typically through practical jokes, deceit, or trickery.