Posted by Word Camel on December 19, 2005
In the origins and definitions section of the site, it makes reference to the French word 'péter', to fart.
I recently saw an article that claims that it is "...a phrase that derives, entirely appropriately, from the old French for being "blown up by your own fart". " Naturally there were no references provided.
Any French speakers able to confirm or deny?
It's all rather Wile E Coyote-esque.
thanks,
Camelita