"Pain in the neck" origin

elaine ferrara · #1 13-Apr-2005, 15:09

What is the origin of the expression "pain in the neck"? When was it first used?

**Tdol** · #2 14-Apr-2005, 03:45

It is a euphemism for 'pain in the ass/arse'. Dictionary.com traces it back to the beginning of the last century:
http://dictionary.reference.com/sear...n%20the%20neck

charlieten · #3 24-Apr-2005, 04:32

Oh,my!I even don't know the meaning of the phrase.Can I look it up in the dictionary you mentioned?I am a new member here.

Silent carillon · #4 24-Apr-2005, 07:29

In my opinion, this idiom refers to someone or something that is very annoying. Imagine that you have a pain in your neck, how would you feel? :))

Marylin · #5 24-Apr-2005, 08:20

Quote:

Originally Posted by Silent carillon

In my opinion, this idiom refers to someone or something that is very annoying. Imagine that you have a pain in your neck, how would you feel? :))

I hear you. I wouldn't like it in my neck or any other part of my body. The one I use for sitting can be quite sensitive too. No good!

You are right in your thinking, it does mean something annoying and bothersome.

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