" Caught by the short hairs (or short and curlies) "
Meaning:
Trapped by an opponent in a situation you can't escape.
Example:
I knew he had been stealing but he was the boss's son. If I said anything he would get me sacked - he had me by the short and curlies.
Where did it originate?:
Britain, late 19th century. People assume this expression has a vulgar origin but, in fact, when coined the hairs referred to were those on the back of the neck.
An alcoholic drink, intended to cure a hangover. It is mistakenly believed that a small measure of the same drink that made a person drunk will sober them up and cure the drinks ill effects. The expression is also used in other contexts, whenever an additional dose of whatever caused a problem is thought to be an appropriate remedy.
Example:
I feel rough. I shouldn't have had those last six tequila slammers last night. Here goes another - maybe it will be the hair of the dog.