Dead Ringers

Posted by Mm on November 19, 2002

I don't know if this is at all true - but the origin I had heard for dead ringer - which makes intuitive sense - is that it comes from some time ago, when it was not possible to establish that a person had died with as much certainly as now. Consequently people who were alive were occasionally buried - which must have been a horrific prospect. Some people had a bell installed at the graveside, which could be pulled from within the coffin should the occupant awaken.

The phrase "He's a dead ringer for you." makes a lot of sense in that context.

Does anybody know if this is a complete myth? It's such a lovely explanation that I would love it to be true.

Thanks.

• Dead Ringer in the archives Word Camel 11/19/02
  • Dead Ringer alf 11/20/02
  • Thank you very much. mm 11/19/02