Humdinger

Posted by R. Berg on May 29, 2003

In Reply to: Humdinger posted by J. Boehmke on May 29, 2003

: What is the origin of "humdinger" which is used to imply a "big deal" or some sort of extravagance?

The dictionaries don't know, either. Webster's says "Origin uncert." American Heritage says "Perhaps from 'hummer,' one who hums."