Hoist from his own petard

Posted by David FG on December 19, 2005

In Reply to: Hoist from his own petard 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

Not exactly. A petard was a small explosive device which had to be stuck to a wall, gate or whatever. The person doing this (the petardier) was in constant danger of being killed himself if the petard exploded before he could get away. Hence, hoist by his own petard.

DFG

• Hoist from his own petard Victoria S Dennis 19/December/05