Does anyone know the origin of the phrase "memory going south" for someone that has lost their memory?

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2006-06-06 14:43:36 · 5 answers · asked by alabama_noachide 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Languages

Yes - it is a reference to birds flying south for the winter.

2006-06-06 14:45:06 · answer #1 · answered by greeneyedprincess 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋

South being the "down" direction for people in the northern hemisphere. Wonder if Australians say "memory going north."

2006-06-06 14:46:41 · answer #2 · answered by Joseph C 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋

Someone from the North.

2006-06-06 14:45:01 · answer #3 · answered by tom_a_hawk12 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋

To add on to greeneyedevils response it also refers to "going home" meaning-- dying.

2006-06-06 14:47:30 · answer #4 · answered by Diamond in the Rough 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋

I really not remember. Guess mine gone somewhere.

2006-06-06 14:46:12 · answer #5 · answered by Snaglefritz 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋