{"id":1091,"date":"2022-01-12T04:38:01","date_gmt":"2022-01-12T04:38:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/english-grammar-lessons.com\/?p=1091"},"modified":"2022-01-12T04:38:01","modified_gmt":"2022-01-12T04:38:01","slug":"with-bells-on-meaning","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/english-grammar-lessons.com\/with-bells-on-meaning\/","title":{"rendered":"With Bells On - Meaning, Origin and Usage"},"content":{"rendered":"

Are you looking for the origin and meaning of the phrase \"with bells on<\/em>?\" This post unpacks everything you need to know about this idiomatic expression.<\/p>\n

With Bells On Meaning<\/h2>\n

The meaning of the idiomatic phrase \"with bells on<\/em>\" refers to your eagerness to attend an event or your attitude toward completing a task.<\/strong><\/p>\n

If you tell someone that you'll arrive with your bells on<\/em> at their event, you're telling them that you'll come in your best attire. It refers to the act of dressing up for an engagement to show your enthusiasm for the event.<\/p>\n

With Bells On Example Usage<\/h2>\n

Sally: \"Are you coming through to the Met Gala later tonight? There's going to be so many A-listers and politicians there, and we want to make a good impression with these people.\"<\/p>\n

Angela: \"For sure, I know we'll have to be looking our best for everyone and the cameras. I'll be there with my bells on<\/em>; I can't wait.\"<\/p>\n

---<\/p>\n

Jeff: \"We're happy you guys are coming through for the bachelor party. Remember, we're going to the club, so wear a suit if you can.\"<\/p>\n

Larry: \"Don't worry, my guy, I understand you want me looking my best; I'll be there with bells on<\/em> for sure.\"<\/p>\n

---<\/p>\n

Tom: \"I can't wait to introduce you to my folks this weekend. They're a bit of a traditional family, so wear something semi-formal, and they'll think you're so classy.\"<\/p>\n

Kim: \"Don't worry, babe, I know you want me to make a good impression. I have my outfit planned already; I'll arrive with bells on<\/em>.\"<\/p>\n

\"\" \"\"<\/p>\n

With Bells On Origin<\/h2>\n

No one knows the origin of the phrase \"with bells on<\/em>.\" However, some language experts suggest that the term refers to the early transportation era of the United States. During these times, settlers would use a horse-drawn wagon to move goods around the country.<\/p>\n

The horses would receive a headdress featuring bells fitted across the eyes and sides of the horses' cheeks. The bells would serve t keep flies away from the horse's eyes and announce the party before they arrive at their destination.<\/p>\n

\"Conestoga Wagon<\/em>,\" a work by George Stumway, penned between 1750 to 1850, says that the wagon drivers would take pride in the bell arrangements, personalizing them to their tastes. If the traveler got stuck during their trip, other settlers providing rescue would often request the horse bells for payment.<\/p>\n

As a result, arriving at your destination with the bells still on your horse meant a successful trip and cause for satisfaction.<\/p>\n