Jump for joy

Posted by Smokey Stover on June 25, 2007

In Reply to: Jump for joy posted by Becky on June 24, 2007

: I would like to know where the phrase "jump for joy" came from, and when?

Have you watched a group of teenaged girls who, while standing, learned of some exciting good news? Ditto for a group of children? The term is also used for adults, even oneself, who learn exciting good news, although with adults it's usually figurative jumping for joy. When cheerleaders jump, sometimes there's little to be joyous about, but they are trying to maintain an atmosphere of excitement and as much joy as they can muster.

The phrase, "jump for joy," has been in use at least since 1775.
SS