phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

The Phrase Finder
Phrases, Sayings and Idioms Home > Discussion Forum

- We are also on

A Phrase A Week - Facebook Group & Follow aphraseaweek on Twitter

Re: How's yer father?

Posted by Lewis on November 01, 2004

In Reply to: How's yer father? posted by Torsten on October 31, 2004

: Hi,

: Could anyone please tell me the origin of 'How's yer father? I understand it's British for 'sex'?
: Thanks in advance,
: Torsten

This is well-established in use, but I think it goes back to the tendency of young couples snatching a moment of lust to leap apart when interrupted and pretend to be talking - in such a scenario the boy asking "...and how is your father?" would be entirely appropriate. I think a music-hall act popularised the particular expression used.