away with the fairies: Idiom Meaning and Origin

There isn't much information available about the origin and history of the idiom "away with the fairies," but we can still learn some interesting facts about it. This idiom is used to describe someone who seems dreamy and absent-minded, like they're not fully present. It's believed to have originated in British English and has been around since at least the early 20th century.

So, what's the connection between "away with the fairies" and other idioms like "in one's dreams" and "whisk away"? Let's take a closer look.

One possible explanation for the origin of the idiom is its association with folklore and mythical creatures. Fairies are often depicted as ethereal beings living in a magical realm. When we say someone is "away with the fairies," we might be suggesting that their thoughts or attention have drifted off to this fantastical realm, away from the reality of their current situation. It's like they're in a daydream, lost in their own thoughts.

Speaking of daydreams, the idiom "in one's dreams" has a similar meaning to "away with the fairies." When we say something is "in one's dreams," we're basically saying it's unrealistic or unlikely to happen. It's like being lost in a dream that's never going to come true. So, both idioms convey a sense of being detached from reality and immersed in a fantasy world.

Now, let's talk about the idiom "whisk away." When we say someone has been "whisked away," we mean they've been suddenly and unexpectedly taken somewhere else. It's like they've been swiftly transported to a different place. This idiom has a connection to "away with the fairies" because both suggest a sense of being removed from one's current situation. "Whisk away" implies a physical removal, while "away with the fairies" suggests a mental or emotional detachment.

Regardless of its exact origins, the idiom "away with the fairies" is widely used to describe people who seem absent-minded or lost in their own thoughts. It's a way of acknowledging that someone is not fully engaged in the present moment. While the idiom may not be commonly used in American English, it's still prevalent in British English and its variants.

So, why do we continue to use this idiom? Well, its association with folklore and mythical creatures adds a touch of whimsy and intrigue. The idea of being "away with the fairies" captures our imagination and reminds us of the complexities of human experience. It's a way of expressing something that can't be easily put into words. Plus, idioms like "away with the fairies" have a way of capturing the essence of a particular feeling or experience, making them memorable and relatable.

While we may never know the true origin of the idiom "away with the fairies," its meaning and usage remain consistent. It's a phrase that resonates with individuals who are familiar with its usage and conveys a specific meaning. With its whimsical imagery and the associations it evokes, this idiom continues to captivate and remind us of the power of figurative language to capture elusive aspects of our inner worlds.