Early Appearances and Theories:
* 18th Century: The earliest known written use of this idiom appears in a 1791 letter written by an American soldier during the Revolutionary War. He complains about the cost of items in a shop, saying they "cost an arm and a leg."
* Possible Origin: Some speculate the idiom originated from the high cost of prosthetics in the 18th and 19th centuries. Losing a limb was a significant hardship, and replacing it was incredibly expensive.
* Alternative Theories: Other theories suggest the idiom might have originated from:
* The high cost of paying for surgery or medical treatment in the past.
* The military context, where losing a limb was a common occurrence and a severe consequence.
Evolution and Popularity:
* 19th Century: The idiom became more popular in the 19th century, appearing in literary works like "A Tale of Two Cities" (1859) by Charles Dickens.
* 20th Century: The idiom gained wider usage in the 20th century, becoming a well-known phrase in English-speaking cultures.
Modern Usage:
Today, the idiom "cost an arm and a leg" is commonly used to exaggerate the expense of something. It's a humorous and memorable way to emphasize that something is extremely expensive. While the original context might have been rooted in physical cost (losing a limb), the modern usage is more metaphorical, conveying the idea of a very high price.
In Conclusion:
The exact origin of the idiom "cost an arm and a leg" is uncertain, but its roots likely lie in the 18th century, with the phrase solidifying its place in the English language over the following centuries. It's a colorful expression that continues to be used today to highlight the expense of goods and services.