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Any idea what this means?

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Lisa J in California

Lisa J in California Report 8 Aug 2004 06:22

Found this on a website, Worldwide Words: "Wigs on the green refers to a fight, brawl or fracas, or to a difference of opinion that could lead to fisticuffs. It often appears as “there’ll be wigs on the green”, as a warning (or a prediction) that an altercation is likely to occur. It’s originally Irish, dating from the eighteenth century, when men usually wore wigs. If a fight started, the first thing that happened was that the wigs of those involved would be knocked off and would roll incongruously about on the grass, to the amusement of bystanders and the embarrassment of participants."

Theresa

Theresa Report 8 Aug 2004 06:15

Thanks Maggie, that makes sense but the Whiggs one has got me beat. Theresa

maggiewinchester

maggiewinchester Report 8 Aug 2004 01:13

Theresa, I don't know about 'whiggs on the green', but 'wear a black hat' sounds like - 'be miserable' or feel sympathy as in at a funeral!or even -' do you expect me to wear a black hat' - feel sympathy! Just an idea Maggie

Researching:
Henry Floyd (g x 4 grandad) Allegedly the heaviest man in England in 1842

Theresa

Theresa Report 8 Aug 2004 00:59

Wiggs on the green! what do you want me to do "wear a black hat" These expressions were my mums favorite saying's, but she didnt know what they meant. By the way she is Irish.