phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

Blow smoke...

Posted by Robbie Robertson on March 08, 2011 at 10:56

Question from the Colonies: I am in receipt of an e-mail that deals with the ancient practice of giving tobacco smoke enemas to cure illnesses and other maladies. The piece concludes with the assertion that the phrase, "To blow smoke up one's ass" originated with this practice. Can anyone confirm or deny this allegation? Authoritative citations with references only, please. Thank you for your kind help.

© 1997 – 2024 Phrases.org.uk. All rights reserved.