What does “bring in the brass monkeys” mean?
The phrase “bring in the brass monkeys” is an old English idiom that refers to the arrival of very cold weather. It is believed to have originated from the days when brass was used to make the joints of ships’ masts, which would become brittle and prone to cracking in cold temperatures. The phrase is often used to describe a sudden drop in temperature, typically during the winter months. While the exact origin of the phrase is unclear, it has been in use for several centuries and remains a popular way to express the onset of severe cold weather. In this article, we will explore the history, meaning, and usage of this intriguing idiom.
The phrase “bring in the brass monkeys” is often used in the United Kingdom and Ireland, particularly in areas with a strong maritime heritage. It is thought that the phrase may have originated from the Royal Navy, where brass was commonly used in ship construction. When the weather turned cold, the brass joints in the masts would contract and become more susceptible to damage. This led to the belief that the cold weather was “bringing in the brass monkeys,” a metaphorical way of describing the onset of severe cold.
Another theory suggests that the phrase may have originated from the use of brass monkey toys, which were popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. These toys were small, brass figures of monkeys that would be arranged on a set of brass balls. When the balls were placed in a cool environment, the monkeys would appear to contract and become smaller, symbolizing the cold weather. The phrase “bring in the brass monkeys” may have developed from this playful toy, representing the arrival of cold weather.
Regardless of its origin, the phrase “bring in the brass monkeys” is a vivid and evocative way to describe the onset of very cold weather. It is often used in everyday conversation and can be found in literature, songs, and even in weather forecasts. When someone says, “It’s bringing in the brass monkeys,” they are essentially indicating that the temperature has dropped significantly and that it is now very cold outside.
In modern usage, the phrase “bring in the brass monkeys” is often used to express a sense of disbelief or surprise at the sudden drop in temperature. It can also be used humorously to describe a particularly cold day. For example, someone might say, “I can’t believe it’s bringing in the brass monkeys already this early in the season!” to express their shock at the cold weather arriving so early in the year.
In conclusion, the phrase “bring in the brass monkeys” is an old English idiom that describes the arrival of very cold weather. While its exact origin is unclear, it is believed to have originated from the use of brass in ship construction or from the popular brass monkey toys. Regardless of its origins, the phrase remains a popular way to express the onset of severe cold weather and is often used in everyday conversation and media reports.
