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Where did son of a gun come from?

Where Did "Son of a Gun" Come From?

The phrase "son of a gun" is a common idiomatic expression that has been used for centuries to describe someone who is considered to be a rascal, a scoundrel, or a rogue. But have you ever wondered where this phrase came from? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of "son of a gun" and explore its origins.

Early Origins

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The phrase "son of a gun" is believed to have originated in the 17th century, during the Golden Age of Piracy. Pirates and sailors would often refer to a newcomer or a novice as a "son of a gun," implying that they were a "son of a gunship" or a "son of a cannon." This phrase was likely used to describe someone who was young, inexperienced, or lacked the skills and knowledge of a seasoned sailor.

Naval Connection

The phrase is also thought to have been influenced by the Naval slang of the time. In the 18th century, British sailors would often refer to their shipmates as "son of a gun" or "son of a tub," which meant that they were a "son of the ship" or a "son of the navy." This phrase was likely used to emphasize the camaraderie and brotherhood among sailors.

18th and 19th Centuries

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the phrase "son of a gun" became more widely used and its meaning expanded to include anyone who was considered to be a bit of a scoundrel or a troublemaker. Outlaws and highwaymen would often be referred to as "sons of a gun," implying that they were a menace to society.

20th Century and Beyond

In the 20th century, the phrase "son of a gun" became more popular in American English, particularly in the United States. It was often used to describe someone who was considered to be a bit of a rogue or a troublemaker, but in a more playful or humorous way. Today, the phrase is still widely used and is often used to describe someone who is a bit of a joke or a prankster.

Etymology

The phrase "son of a gun" is believed to have originated from the Middle English phrase "gunne son," which means "son of a cannon." This phrase was likely used to describe someone who was a bit of a wild card or a troublemaker, and the "son of a gun" phrase was born.

Table: Origins of "Son of a Gun"

EraPhraseMeaning
17th century"Son of a gun"Newcomer or novice
18th century"Son of a gun"Naval slang for shipmate
18th and 19th centuries"Son of a gun"Scoundrel or troublemaker
20th century and beyond"Son of a gun"Rogue or troublemaker (playful/humorous)

Conclusion

In conclusion, the phrase "son of a gun" has a rich and complex history that spans centuries. From its origins in the 17th century as a way to describe a newcomer or novice, to its later use as a naval slang term and a way to describe someone who is a bit of a scoundrel or troublemaker. Today, the phrase is still widely used and is often used to describe someone who is a bit of a joke or a prankster. Whether you use it to describe someone who is a bit of a troublemaker or a someone who is just a bit of a goofball, "son of a gun" is a phrase that is sure to bring a smile to your face.

Bullets List

• The phrase "son of a gun" originated in the 17th century during the Golden Age of Piracy.
• The phrase was likely used to describe a newcomer or novice.
• The phrase was also influenced by Naval slang and was used to describe a shipmate.
• The phrase became more widely used in the 18th and 19th centuries to describe someone who was a scoundrel or troublemaker.
• In the 20th century and beyond, the phrase was used more playfully and humorously to describe someone who is a bit of a joke or a prankster.

References

  • Oxford English Dictionary
  • Merriam-Webster Dictionary
  • Cambridge Dictionary
  • "The Pirate Dictionary" by Captain Charles Johnson
  • "A Dictionary of Slang" by Eric Partridge

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