Popular sayings in the English language often have multiple meanings and can serve as clever metaphors for deeper meanings. But where did these expressions come from and who started saying them? One interesting origin story comes from the popular phrase “elephant in the room,” which refers to a big topic of conversation that no one is discussing. The first recorded use of this phrase was in 1959 by The New York Times, but Russian writer Ivan Krylov mentioned a similar idea in 1814. Writer Mark Twain is also credited with using this phrase in his 1882 short story “The Stolen White Elephant.”
Another popular expression, “shrinking violet,” is often used to describe a shy, timid or bashful person. This phrase may have originated as the name of a flower rather than a person, but it is mainly used figuratively today to describe modest and introverted individuals. An early example of this phrase in print can be found in Pennsylvania’s Titusville Herald newspaper in 1870, where it was used to describe a man believed to have absconded with public money.
The expression “go cold turkey” has nothing to do with deli meat or Thanksgiving dinner. Instead, it refers to someone who quits something for good without delay or discussion. The phrase was first written in British Columbia’s Daily Colonist in 1921, describing those who surrender to see a doctor. This phrase vividly captures the initial dread and discomfort that comes from immediately quitting something addictive, such as drugs or dating apps. The phrase likely originated from a combination of “cold” meaning straightforward and the earlier phrase “talk turkey,” which refers to speaking plainly.
These popular expressions and their surprising origin stories showcase the rich history behind common sayings in the English language. By exploring the background of phrases such as “elephant in the room,” “shrinking violet,” and “go cold turkey,” we gain insight into the cultural context and evolution of language over time. From writers such as Mark Twain to newspaper columns in Pennsylvania, these expressions have woven themselves into the fabric of everyday speech, providing colorful and meaningful ways to communicate complex ideas. The next time you use a popular phrase, remember that it may have a fascinating story behind it.
