SEPTEMBER IDIOMS: “Dressed to the nines” on Day 257 of 365 Days of Literacy for Kids

Here on 365 Days of Literacy for Kids, your kids will be “dressed” with IDIOMS during the month of September.

IDIOMS are phrases that reveal “secrets” from the past. IDIOMS come from many sources, many languages, many authors, many cultures.  The “hidden” meanings in IDIOMS are great fun for kids, but also teach important, interesting and intriguing lessons in how language has developed and evolved over time.

Each SEPTEMBER IDIOM on 365 Days of Literacy for Kids will address something to do with clothing… such as teaching kids the meaning of the very unusual dressed to the nines idiom.

– The idiom dressed to the nines means dressed to impress, dressed to perfection, fashionably dressed or elaborately dressed.

Origin of dressed to the nines Idiom:  Dressed to the nines is a term that involves lots of speculation (there may even be 9 origin theories!)  Here goes…

1.  9 is the highest number of single-digit numbers, signifying perfection
2. In Numerology, 9 is a mystical, sacred, perfect number
3. Some theorize that it takes 9 yards of fabric to make a suit, and the more the fabric, the wealthier and more prominent its wearer
4. There are 9 Muses of Greek Mythology, making 9 a magical number or “the grace of 9
5. “Dressed to the nines” derives from the Old English expression “dressed to then eyne”, meaning dressed elaborately from toes to eyes; “eyne” eventually pronouned “nines”
6. “To the nine” was once used as a phrase of highest standards, not restricted to dress

– OK, so there are 6 theories of the dressed to the nines idiom to discuss with your kids and grandkids.  Maybe you can come to some agreement on your own… or develop your own theory!

Dress your kids for back-to-school success with knowledge and attention to dressed to the nines.

Take a few minutes each day in SEPTEMBER to teach the secrets of IDIOMS to your kids & grandkids.  Understanding IDIOMS is a wonderful way to enrich reading and language development.

And I’m not just talking through my hat!

About Audrey

Audrey McClelland has been a digital influencer since 2005. She’s a mom of 5 and shares tips on her three favorite things: parenting, fashion and beauty. She’s also a Contemporary Romance Author.

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