14 Common Sayings That Have a Bizarre Origin

11. Let Your Hair Down

Meaning: To relax and behave in a free manner

Origin: In the 17th century, Parisian nobles must appear in public with elaborate and intricate hairstyles, which required hours of work that it becomes relaxing when they come home at the end of the day and let their hair down.

12. Kick the Bucket

Meaning: To die

Origin: In the old days, when animals are killed at a slaughterhouse, a bucket was placed under it while it was positioned on a pulley. When the ropes are adjusted, the animals would literally kick the bucket before being slaughtered.

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Clare Whitfield Chief Editor

Clare Whitfield is the Editor of Stay at Home Mum and a recognised voice in practical home management for Australian families. Based in the northern suburbs of Sydney, she balances editorial leadership with life as a stay at home mum to two school age children. Her background in home economics and more than a decade of experience in recipe development, family budgeting, and household systems inform her work.

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