If you've ever heard the phrase "let the cat out of the bag," you may wonder where it came from. This idiom means to reveal a secret or surprise prematurely, and it has an interesting origin story.
The Origin of "Let The Cat Out Of The Bag"
The phrase "let the cat out of the bag" dates back to the 1700s. In those days, people would often bring their own provisions to market in bags. Sometimes, unscrupulous sellers would substitute a lower quality item for a higher quality one and try to pass it off as the real thing.
To prevent this from happening, buyers would often ask to see the actual item before agreeing to buy it. However, some sellers would try to deceive the buyer by placing a cat in the bag instead of the item they were selling. The cat would be quiet as long as the bag was closed, but as soon as the seller walked away, the cat would escape and "let the cat out of the bag," revealing the deception.
Alternate Theories
While the above theory is the most widely accepted origin of "let the cat out of the bag," there are other theories as well. Some people believe that the phrase comes from the practice of whipping a cat out of a bag as part of a carnival sideshow act. Others believe that it comes from the practice of sailors receiving their punishment by being whipped with a "cat o' nine tails" out in the open on deck, rather than in the privacy of the captain's quarters.
Usage of "Let The Cat Out Of The Bag"
Today, "let the cat out of the bag" is a common phrase used in English to indicate that someone has revealed a secret or surprise. It can be used in a variety of situations, from accidentally revealing a surprise party to exposing a company's financial misdeeds.
Conclusion
While the exact origin of "let the cat out of the bag" may be unknown, it's clear that the phrase has been in use for centuries. Whether it comes from the practice of substituting a cat for a higher quality item, whipping a cat out of a bag in a carnival sideshow, or punishing sailors out in the open on deck, the phrase has become a part of our everyday language.
So the next time you hear someone say "let the cat out of the bag," you'll know where the phrase comes from!