Why is it called a brass monkey?
The term “brass monkey” is a curious and often misunderstood phrase, particularly when it comes to weather forecasting. It is a phrase that has been used for centuries, but its origins are not entirely clear. The question of why it is called a brass monkey is one that has intrigued many, and in this article, we will delve into the history and origins of this peculiar expression.>
The term “brass monkey” is believed to have originated from the Royal Navy during the 18th century. At that time, brass was a more valuable material than iron, and brass fittings were used on ships to prevent rust and corrosion. The brass monkey was a small, brass fitting that was used to hold the monkey blocks, which were part of the ship’s rigging. The monkey blocks were used to guide the ropes and sails, and the brass monkey was essential for their proper functioning.
The phrase “brass monkey” was used to describe a situation where the monkey blocks were so tightly secured that they could not be moved. This situation was often associated with extremely cold weather, as the cold temperatures would cause the brass to contract and become even more rigid. When the weather was so cold that the monkey blocks could not be moved, it was said that the brass monkey was “fastened up.”
The connection between the brass monkey and cold weather is thought to have led to the phrase being used as a weather forecast. It was believed that if the brass monkey was “fastened up,” it meant that the weather was going to be extremely cold. Over time, the phrase evolved to become a general term for very cold weather, regardless of whether the brass monkey was actually being used or not.
However, the origins of the phrase are not without controversy. Some historians argue that the term “brass monkey” may have originated from the practice of using brass to make artificial monkeys for use in medical experiments. These monkeys were used to simulate human anatomy and were often referred to as “brass monkeys.” The idea was that if the weather was so cold that the brass monkeys could not be moved, it must be very cold indeed.
Regardless of its origins, the term “brass monkey” has become a popular way to describe extremely cold weather. It is a phrase that has been passed down through generations and continues to be used today. While the exact origins of the term may never be fully understood, its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of language and the enduring legacy of the Royal Navy.
