Pocket Change

Posted by SR on June 09, 2004

In Reply to: Origin and Meaning of Phrase posted by Bruce Kahl on June 09, 2004

: : Hi can someone tell me the origin of the phrase
: : Bits and Bobs and its meaning I can't find it anywhere.

: : Thanks

: From various uses I found it seems to means "a variety of this and that".

: Seems to be a UK thing and is often spelled "bits and BOB'S"---notice the capitalized letters.

: Maybe some of you Brits out there can fill us in.

: I'm not a Brit, but it seems to me that "bits and bobs" refers to pocket change such as nickels and dimes or dimes and quarters. While growing up in Ireland, a "bit" was a coin, three-penny bit or six-penny bit, much like a nickle and a dime. A "bob" was a shilling or twelve pence, similar to a quarter. Twelve shillings made up a pound. I hope my guess is correct.

• Pocket Change Henry 09/June/04
  • Pocket Change Lewis 10/June/04