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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.
Apr 8, 2013 · One says that the phrase comes from the nine yards of material a tailor needed to make a really nice suit. ... (Lanarkshire) Regiment of Foot, a British army regiment established in 1824 ...
Mar 12, 2024 · One common theory posits that it traces back to the intricately detailed uniforms of the 99th Wiltshire Regiment, an 18th-century British army unit known for its sartorial elegance. Another theory suggests the expression relates to the amount of fabric—a full nine yards—traditionally needed to create a complete suit.
Apr 18, 2014 · Yet another commonly put forth explanation we can then safely ignore is that it came from the 99th Wiltshire Regiment. Around the mid-19th century, this regiment became known as “The Nines” and were particularly noted for their perfect uniform and dress. In this case, both “dressed to the nines” and “to the nines” were around long ...
One very persistent theory is that the British Army’s 99th Regiment of Foot were renowned for their smartness, so much so that the other regiments based with them at Aldershot were constantly trying to emulate them — to equal “the nines”. The big problem with this theory is that the story dates from the 1850s, and the phrase is older.
One very persistent theory is that the British Army’s 99th Regiment of Foot were renowned for their smartness, so much so that the other regiments based with them at Aldershot were constantly trying to emulate them — to equal ‘the nines’. The big problem with this theory is that the story dates from the 1850s, and the phrase is older.
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What does 'to the Nines' mean?
Where did the word 'to the Nines' come from?
What does nine mean in English?
During its time as a separate regiment, the 99th Foot was known for its smartness and drill. This earned it an assignment guarding Queen Victoria’s pavilion in Aldershot in 1858. As a result the regiment became known as ‘The Queens Pets’. It is also said that the expression ’Dressed to the Nines’ originated as a reference to the 99th ...
