This website was written up in the Librarian's Index to the Internet update
that was just distributed. Maybe it will be useful.
1. The Phrase Finder (http://phrases.shu.ac.uk/) -- This site provides a
searchable list of the "meanings and origins of over a thousand phrases,
sayings, quotes and cliches in English." There is also a forum (searchable and
archived) for discussing the meanings and derivation of English phrases.
Good luck!
Nanna Frye
Court of Appeal
San Diego, CA
____________________Reply Separator____________________
Subject: Derivation of a phrase
Author: "Willats; Marilyn B." <SMTP:mWillats@PillsburyWinthrop.com>
Date: 1/2/03 1:45 PM
I'm trying to find the derivation of the phrase "it cost an arm and a leg."
I've checked various dictionaries of phrases, online sources and the O.E.D. One
source I checked said that it was probably a relatively recent phrase
(post-WWII), but didn't give an explanation. A colleague has suggested that it
might refer to insurance payments for the loss of an arm or a leg. Any ideas?
Many thanks -
Marilyn B. Willats
Reference Librarian
Library Associates at Pillsbury Winthrop
50 Fremont St., 6th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94105
Phone: (415) 983-1749
Fax: (415) 983-1200
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