What is the meaning of the idiom cost an arm and leg?
to be too expensive
Definition of cost an arm and a leg informal. : to be too expensive I want a new car that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
What does an arm and a leg mean literally?
Definition of an arm and a leg : a very large amount of money It’s a reliable car, and it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.
Where did the phrase arm and a leg come from?
The origin of the expression ‘an arm and a leg’ is from 1940’s America. The earliest written example comes from a December 1949 edition of The Long Beach Independent: “Food Editor Beulah Karney has more than 10 ideas for the homemaker who wants to say “Merry Christmas” and not have it cost her an arm and a leg.”
Where did the phrase costs an arm and a leg come from?
The Origin of ‘An Arm And a Leg’ The idea being that soldiers, because of their heavy involvement in war and being in the line of fire, can possibly lose a hand, foot, leg, or arm. Thus, the war would literally cost the person their arm or leg, which is a high price to pay.
Where did the saying it cost an arm and a leg come from?
Where did the expression big wig come from?
Origin of Bigwig This expression originated in the 1700s, and it is indeed literal. In the 17th and 18th centuries, many European noblemen wore big wigs to showcase their wealth or significance in society. In those days, wigs were very expensive to acquire and keep in good condition.
Where did the term straight laced come from?
This term comes from a women’s clothing item: a bodice. Women wear this garment on the upper body, and it is similar to a vest. People fasten it with ties or laces. A woman with a strait-laced bodice has the bodice laced tightly.
What does bigwig mean?
Definition of bigwig : an important person. Synonyms & Antonyms Example Sentences Learn More About bigwig.
What does Straight Lace mean?
1 : excessively strict in manners, morals, or opinion. 2 : wearing or having a bodice or stays tightly laced. Other Words from straitlaced Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More About straitlaced.
Is straight laced negative?
If you describe someone as strait-laced, you disapprove of them because they have very strict views about what kind of behavior is moral or acceptable.
What does the saying bigwigs meaning?
the most important person
A government bigwig is a person with a good deal of power and influence, and a corporate bigwig might own an enormous company. This word dates from the 18th century, when powerful, distinguished men tended to wear large, impressive wigs. Definitions of bigwig. the most important person in a group or undertaking.