2007-01-10 17:21:09 · 7 answers · asked by Inspector 2 in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
The metaphorical phrase lame duck was originally coined in the 18th century at the London Stock Exchange, to refer to a broker who defaulted on his debts.
2007-01-10 17:26:45 · answer #1 · answered by Gary S 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It refers not to the foot but the wing and would literally mean a duck which cannot keep up with the flock. Its first use was in the 18th century and referred to brokers on the London Stock Exchange who could not pay (keep up with) their debts. It was used in America to refer to politicians who had lost an election starting in the 19th century.
2007-01-11 01:28:40 · answer #2 · answered by Dave P 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It comes from what people used to refer to ducks coz they are boring (isn't this obvious). This came during the British Empire, I don't remember from where.
2007-01-11 01:33:44 · answer #3 · answered by Charlemagne 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
they found a lame duck
2007-01-11 01:23:22 · answer #4 · answered by robert 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
a lame duck cannot fly. ducks that cannot fly are good as dead. a politcian they call a "lme duck" is essentially a dead duck. you could say his goose is cooked. just remember, wet birds do not fly at night.
2007-01-11 01:27:08 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
A leader without power,as Bush with Democrats controlling Congress !!
2007-01-11 01:24:03 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
Look under "Pres Bush" in Dictionary.
No wait... that is LAME PRESIDENT.
Sorry, my mistake
2007-01-11 01:25:33 · answer #7 · answered by CTM 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋