Bottle and rattle

Posted by R. Berg on March 24, 2001

In Reply to: Phrase posted by Kim Rich on March 23, 2001

: I am researching a phrase, which might be English/South African in origin. The key words in the phrase are "bottle and rattle". The statement was,"..bottle and rattle is all that is needed in my life." Any information to what this is referencing would be greatly appreciated.

: Thanks,
: Kim

I've never heard this one, but bottles and rattles are associated with infants. It might mean "I have simple needs" or "I'm as easy to please as a baby."

I'd like to discourage the spread of "reference" as a verb to the world of English usage outside law offices. I wish I knew a tactful way to do so.