Origin. The phrase originates from the time when running was prominent and people would wear special running shoes and socks. To pull up the socks would mean that the race is about to start and hence the athletes would have to be prepared for it.
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Where does the phrase sock it come from?
What’s the origin of the phrase ‘Put a sock in it’? This is a colloquial British phrase that originated in the early 20th century. It is generally used when someone is being so noisy as to annoy others. The imagery behind the phrases is that putting a sock in whatever was causing the noise would quieten it down.
What is the meaning of this idiom pull one’s socks?
Make an effort to improve one’s work
phrase. informal. Make an effort to improve one’s work, performance, or behaviour. ‘A more professional approach to the game has made each member of the side a better fielder, keener to win, no longer prepared to be pushed about by sides that could beat them if they pulled their socks up.
What does the saying keep your socks on mean?
keep (one’s) socks on
To remain patient and calm, especially when beginning to become angry or upset with impatience. Usually said as an imperative.
What is the meaning of pull your head in?
to withdraw, back off
If you’re known as a stickybeak you might be told to pull your head in. This old Australian phrase means to withdraw, back off, or stop what you are doing, like the action of a turtle pulling its head back into its shell. It’s similar to mind your own business.
Why do we say bless your cotton socks?
‘Bless their cotton socks’
In 1858 as Bishop of Calcutta, Mr Cotton created schools for Eurasian children. As part of his philanthropy, he ordered dozens of pairs of socks to be sent over for the children, blessing them on arrival.
What does bless your little cotton socks mean?
idiom UK humorous. said about someone, especially an adult, when you are pretending that you like them. Liking.
What does passing the hat mean?
Ask for financial contributions, as in Let’s pass the hat so we can get her a nice going-away gift. This expression alludes to the actual practice of passing a hat around a gathering, but it is also used more figuratively, as in The board decided to pass the hat again among the corporate sponsors. [ Late 1800s]
What does it mean to roll up your sleeves?
to prepare to work hard
Definition of roll up one’s sleeves
1 : to fold up the ends of one’s shirt sleeves to make them shorter. 2 informal : to prepare to work hard It’s time to roll up our sleeves and get the job done.
What is the meaning of like a sitting duck?
: an easy or defenseless target.
What does sock on mean in Yorkshire?
Usually said when someone is fast asleep, sometimes sock on is used in other parts of Yorkshire. 21. Mamimia. What you say to your mum when she’s looking for you.
Should you sleep with socks on?
The phenomenon causes blood to tighten and reduce circulation, which can leave your skin cold and discolored. “Wearing socks at night can help prevent that from flaring up by keeping your feet warm and the blood circulating,” says Dr.
What does pull your finger out mean?
If you tell someone to pull their finger out or to get their finger out, you are telling them rudely that you want them to start doing some work or making an effort. [British, informal, disapproval]
What does the phrase fair dinkum mean?
unquestionably good or genuine : excellent
Definition of fair dinkum
slang, Australia. : unquestionably good or genuine : excellent —often used as a general expression of approval these cigars are fair dinkum.
What does wind your neck in?
Verb. (UK, informal, chiefly imperative) Stop talking or arguing; shut up.
What does bless your heart in the South mean?
“Bless your heart” is a phrase that is common in the Southern United States. The phrase has multiple meanings. It may be used to express genuine sympathy or as a precursor to an insult to soften the blow.
What is the meaning of God bless you?
God bless (you)!
idiom. said when saying goodbye to someone, to say that you hope good things will happen to them : Good night everyone, and God bless. said when someone sneezes, to say that you hope they have good health: “Achoo!” “God bless you.”
What does it mean by bless your soul?
Definition of bless my soul
—used in speech to express surprise You decided to come see us after all. Well, bless my soul!
What does have one’s hands full mean?
to be very busy
Definition of have one’s hands full
: to be very busy She’ll have her hands full with the new baby.
What does it mean to pass the torch?
Definition of pass the torch (on)
chiefly US. : to give one’s job, duties, etc., to another person He is retiring and passing the torch on to his successor. She says she’s ready to pass the torch.
What does dont pass the buck mean?
To shift blame from oneself to another person: “Passing the buck is a way of life in large bureaucracies.” (See the buck stops here.)