Where does the expression "Butter Your Parsnips" come from?

Question

On Law & Order CI, Nicole, my favorite villain, used this expression. I would like to know the origin from the UK or anyone who knows the answer.

On the tv program, Nicole says "Whatever butters your parsnips" to Bobby Goren. Now these answers are starting to make sense to me.

Answer 1

A friend from Scotland says that, but he says it as "won't butter your parsnips" -- meaning "it won't make a difference", or "it doesn't matter."

Answer 2

It goes back to the 17th century and was originally "fine words butter no parsnips", meaning flattery will get you nowhere. Here's a bit more I found on the internet:

This proverbial saying is English and dates from the 17th century. It expresses the notion that fine words count for nothing and that action means more than flattery or promises

Answer 3

As a British ex-pat. the answers given here are correct. i.e.
Whatever butters your parsnips = whatever turns you on; or whatever floats your boat. CJ

Answer 4

The whole saying is "Kind words butter no parsnips" I guess you can see what that means.

Answer 5

I am anxious to see the answers you get because I have heard this expression too and would also like to know where it came from

Answer 6

it came from the uk -- when it got to the states it was changed to "what floats your boat" like brussel sprouts - parsnips are not on the every day menu in the states!!!

Answer 7

It means rapidly, as quick as a hot knife would pass through a bar of butter.

Answer 8

I have never heard that expression.
Thanks for asking, because I learned something from the knowledgeable people who answered.

Answer 9

Now I know. Its like whatever trips your trigger. or what ever pleases you.

Answer 10

In some corners it means 'whatever turns you on' - 'whatever makes you happy' - whatever floats your boat