[Grammar] Polish the apple

[Snappy]

Is the expression "Don't polish the apple" already old-fashioned?

 

[bhaisahab]

Is the expression "Don't polish the apple" already old-fashioned?

I've never heard it.

 

[Williamyh]

Is the expression "Don't polish the apple" already old-fashioned?

Please let us know where did you hear this phrase.

 

[Snappy]

Please let us know where did you hear this phrase.

According to the American Heritage, "apple-polish" means
"To seek favor by toadying."

I was not sure when I heard this phrase.
Do you ever say, "Don't apple-polish" then?

 

[bhaisahab]

According to the American Heritage, "apple-polish" means
"To seek favor by toadying."

I was not sure when I heard this phrase.
Do you ever say, "Don't apple-polish" then?

Maybe it's an American thing. I've never come across it in BrE, in my experience of over 50 years.

 

[mmasny]

Google gives dictionary entries only, so I guess it isn't used much.

 

[suikerbossie]

I have never heard of it either.
But I have an old dictionary which gives 'apple-polisher' (U.S. noun) meaning 'toady' 'flatterer'.

Hope it's of some help.