phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

Dead as a door nail

Posted by James Watters on August 05, 2001

I don't think the origin currently given is correct.

A door nail is the metal plate inserted into a door beneath a door knocker - we had to buy a new one recently and that was what is was called.

I suppose its dead because it gets hit so often

© 1997 – 2024 Phrases.org.uk. All rights reserved.