This file is an excerpt
from the September 1997 version of Mark Israel's AUE FAQ.
The file was re-generated Friday 23 January 2004 01:36 GMT.
To see the full AUE FAQ at Mark Israel's Web site, click here.
"dressed to the nines"
----------------------
This expression, meaning "very fashionably and elaborately
dressed", is recorded from the 18th century. "The nine" or "the
nines" were used to signify "superlative" in numerous other
contexts. Theories include: 9, being the highest single-digit
number, symbolized the best; a metanalysis of Old English to
then eyne "to the eyes"; and a reference to the 9 muses.