Bill of health

Posted by James Briggs on October 25, 2002

In Reply to: Bill of health posted by jim on October 25, 2002

: Where did the phrase, "Clean bill of health" originate? Thank you...

A guess, but I'd be surprised if this is maritime in origin. Ships were often inspected before being allowed to dock in foreign lands - they could well be carrying plague or some other horror. Once inspected, and found to be disease free, they were given 'a clean bill of health' to show to the harbourmaster.

• Bill of health ESC 10/25/02