Take your cue

Posted by R. Berg on October 23, 2003

In Reply to: Take your cue posted by Lotg on October 23, 2003

: And from the same book: "He sounded emotionless and professional. Jackpot too his cue and shut his mouth."

: 'Took his cue' obviously means took the hint, got the message, etc. But why 'his cue'? Is this from the theatrical term? And if so, why a cue anyway?

Yes, the theatrical term. American Heritage Dictionary: "Cue . . . A word or bit of stage business signaling the beginning of another action or speech . . . [Origin obscure.]"