elbow grease

Meaning of the phrase:

Origin of the phrase:

Whether you’re breaking a sweat scrubbing floors or building callouses on your hands from a day of manual labor, you know what it takes to get the job done. And for centuries, the English language has embraced a phrase that pays homage to our tireless efforts. That’s right, we’re talking about “elbow grease”! It’s a phrase that shows the world you ain’t afraid of getting yer hands dirty and that you’re willing to put in the effort to make things happen.

The origins of this timeless phrase can be traced back to the 17th century. The great metaphysical poet, Andrew Marvell, included the phrase in his work Rehearsal Transpros’d published in 1672:

Two or three brawny Fellows in a Corner, with meer Ink and Elbow-grease, do more Harm than an Hundred systematical Divines with their sweaty Preaching.

This piece of literature was a satirical critique of the religious and political intolerance that was rampant in the English Parliament during that period. Marvell believed that with just a little ink, paper, and “elbow grease”, the power of the written word could wield far more influence than the endless preaching of speakers. Although he might have initially used the term ‘elbow grease’ to describe the act of writing, we can already observe the figurative use of this expression.

It did not take long for the phrase “elbow grease” to take on its current meaning, one that is closely associated with hard work and sweat. In 1699, a curious book was published by a wordsmith who, in my humble opinion, may have spent a tad too much time frolicking with the caterpillar in Wonderland. This masterpiece bore the title A New Dictionary of the Terms Ancient and Modern of the Canting Crew, In its several Tribes, of Gypsies, Beggars, Thieves, Cheats, &c., With an Addition of some Proverbs, Phrases, Figurative Speeches, &c., Useful for all sorts of People (especially Foreigners) to secure their Money and preserve their Lives; besides being very Diverting and Entertaining, being wholly New. Whew!

Within its pages, and given its unusually long title, we find what may now seem like an oddly short definition:

Elbow-grease, a derisory Term for Sweat.

The value of hard work and effort has been instilled in our collective consciousness for generations. This belief is epitomized by the old adage that “elbow grease” is the ultimate furniture polish. To achieve a shine that can make even the dullest table sparkle like a diamond, one simply has to put in some good old-fashioned elbow grease. It is an art form that requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to push oneself to the limit. It cannot be bought with money; it is something that must be earned through sheer grit and determination.

So, there you have it! Elbow grease is not just a substance, it’s a state of mind. It’s the determination to roll up your sleeves and tackle any challenge head-on. Whether you’re polishing furniture, scrubbing floors, or chasing your dreams, elbow grease is the secret ingredient that will help you succeed.