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A more likely explanation is that the phrase is simply an extension of the earlier phrase “to the nines,” which meant “perfectly” or “the highest standard”. This shorter phrase was in use in the 18th century, before “dressed to the nines” was first used. The number nine has long been used as a superlative in English.
One says that the phrase comes from the nine yards of material a tailor needed to make a really nice suit. A few tailors I talked to, though, say four to five yards of fabric should be sufficient ...
Mar 12, 2024 · The phrase "dressed to the nines" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who is dressed very smartly and fashionably, often to the highest degree. It suggests that a person has taken great care in their appearance, choosing attire that is suitable for a special occasion and reflects a high standard of fashion and elegance.
To the nines. " To the nines " is an idiom meaning "to perfection" or "to the highest degree". In modern English usage, the phrase most commonly appears as "dressed to the nines" or "dressed up to the nines". [ 1][ 2]
The phrase "dressed to the nines," meaning "dressed in a highly elaborate or showy manner," is a specific application of the Scottish phrase " to the nine (s) ." Early written evidence of that phrase appeared in the 18th century, and it wasn't originally associated with one's dress. The bonny Lines therein thou sent me, / How to the nines they ...
One popular theory suggests that it comes from the Scottish phrase “to the nines,” which means “to perfection.”. Another theory is that it originated from tailors using nine yards of fabric to make a suit. Regardless of its origins, “dressed to the nines” has become a widely used phrase in English-speaking countries and beyond.
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Definition of dressed to the nines in the Idioms Dictionary. dressed to the nines phrase. What does dressed to the nines expression mean? ... The first expression is ...
