You have probably never realized just how many of the words and expressions used in everyday English have a fascinating nautical origin. If you've ever felt you've been sold down the river or put through the hoop, or that somebody is spic and span or footloose when they're at close quarters, or that anything less than the Real McCoy makes you want to chance your arm, then your language is already steeped in the salty tradition. This charming pocket book explains the practical ship-board beginnings of over 200 such phrases – colorful, bizarre and surprising – and how they came ashore. They are arranged alphabetically for easy reference, and with Bill Beavis' lively cartoons there is never a dull moment.A charming etymology tracing the shipboard origins of over 200 words and expressions, and how they came ashore into everyday conversation.