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'Kick The Bucket' etymology

Details of the origins of the English idiom 'Kick The Bucket' (meaning to die) have been lost.

It was in use at least as far back as the 1700s, but etymologists differ in their opinions about its roots. One theory is that it might be related to the French word 'buquet' meaning 'to balance'. Another idea suggests a link with the Latin proverb Capra Scyria, which recounts the story of a goat that kicks over a bucket after being milked.

Note : A related recent variant in current use is the phrase 'Bucket List' - meaning a list of goals one hopes to achieve before 'kicking the bucket'.

Further details see Wikipedia and EtymOnline


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