Sources of idioms

Where can I find the source of an idiom? That is, I know what "raining cats and dogs" means, but WHY does it have that meaning? What is its derivation?

Any advice will be appreciated. Jeanne Douglas EMAIL REMOVED - Send PM to This User Instead

[Tdol]

Some on this page give background information: http://www.usingenglish.com/links/Id...ons/index.html

[Tdol]

And try here too: Online Etymology Dictionary

[MikeNewYork]

Originally Posted by Unregistered

Where can I find the source of an idiom? That is, I know what "raining cats and dogs" means, but WHY does it have that meaning? What is its derivation?

Any advice will be appreciated. Jeanne Douglas EMAIL REMOVED - Send PM to This User Instead

In many cases, the actual "why" is unknown. Be aware that there are many interesting but incorrect explanations of the origin of these phrases. In this case, the two most compelling explanations are:

1. In northern European myths, rain and wind were symbolized by cats and dogs, respectively.

2. After a severe rain in 17th century London, a lot of debris, incuding dead animals would wash down the streets.

This is a very good site for chasing the origins of odd expressions:

The Word Detective

[Anglika]

Another useful source

Meanings and origins of sayings and phrases | List of sayings | English sayings | Idiom definitions | Idiom examples | Idiom origins | List of idioms | Idiom dictionary | Meaning of idioms

[MikeNewYork]

Originally Posted by Anglika

Another useful source

Meanings and origins of sayings and phrases | List of sayings | English sayings | Idiom definitions | Idiom examples | Idiom origins | List of idioms | Idiom dictionary | Meaning of idioms

I'll see that one and raise you one:

World Wide Words

[Anglika]

Nice one - -thanks

[MikeNewYork]

Originally Posted by Anglika

Nice one - -thanks

You're welcome.