Piss and vinegar

Posted by R. Berg on March 29, 2001

In Reply to: Piss and vinegar posted by Deb on March 27, 2001

: Does anyone know the origin of the phrase (being full of) "piss and vinegar"? The way it was used in our family had to do with someone being full of mischief, energy, etc.
: Thanks to all!

Your family was right on the button about the meaning. Dict. of Amer. Slang says:

piss and vinegar: Energy; vivaciousness; mischievousness. Not considered taboo.

Nothing about the origin, though, and the phrase isn't in my other references at all.

• Piss and vinegar ESC 03/29/01
  • Piss and vinegar Barney 03/29/01