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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.
Mar 12, 2024 · March 12, 2024. "Dressed to the nines" means to be dressed very elegantly or flamboyantly, often for a special occasion. This phrase implies that a person wears the most fashionable or formal attire possible. For example, if someone is attending a gala event, they might be "dressed to the nines" in a tuxedo or a lavish gown.
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". In modern English usage, the phrase most commonly appears as "dressed to the nines" or "dressed up to the nines".
Dressed to the nines. 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 ...
Mar 5, 2017 · The phrase dressed to the nines means dressed very elaborately or smartly. It is first recorded in The Penny Wedding, published in The Herald (New York) of 11th March 1837: A circumstance of a very engaging nature occurred last week at a house in the Broadway, not a hundred miles from the Bowling Green, which almost realized the Arabian tale of ...
Apr 18, 2014 · According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the first recorded instance of dressing to the nines was in the 1859 Dictionary of Slang, by John Camden Hotten where it states: “‘dressed up to the nines’, in a showy or recherché manner.”. However, there is at least one earlier documented instance, which seems to imply the expression was ...
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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.
