go to the mattresses: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘go to the mattresses’ mean?
"Go to the mattresses" is an idiom that means to prepare for a serious fight or conflict by using all available resources and strategies. It originates from the practice of taking weapons and supplies to a hidden location during times of war or conflict.
Idiom Explorer
"Here we go" is an idiom used to convey the beginning of an event or situation, often with a sense of anticipation or resignation. It suggests that something is about to happen, and the speaker is ready to face it, whether it is a positive or negative experience.
The idiom "guns blazing" means to engage in a task or activity with great determination, energy, and enthusiasm.
The idiom "go to town on" means to do something with great enthusiasm or energy, often with a focus on doing it thoroughly or excessively.
The idiom "go to town" means to work or proceed vigorously and with enthusiasm.
The idiom "go to the wall" means to face defeat or failure, often in a financial or competitive context.
When someone "goes to the mat," they are willing to fight or argue fiercely for something they believe in or support.
The idiom "go to the ends of the earth" means to do everything possible or make extreme efforts to achieve or find something.
The idiom "go to the dogs" means to deteriorate or decline, often used to describe a situation or place becoming worse in quality or standards.
The idiom "go to sleep" means to fall asleep or to begin the process of sleeping. It is often used to encourage someone to relax and rest, or to indicate that someone is not paying attention or is disinterested in a particular topic or situation.
The idiom "go to ground" means to hide or disappear, especially when being pursued or facing a difficult situation. It can also imply seeking shelter or protection, similar to animals going to their burrows underground.
Bedroom Confrontations
The idiom "go to the mattresses," popularized by the 1969 film "The Godfather," is a metaphorical phrase used to describe engaging in a battle or conflict. It originated from the Italian phrase "andare ai materassi," which translates to "go to bed." Over time, the idiom has evolved to mean assembling a group of people for a fight or showdown.
The phrase gained prominence through its use in "The Godfather," a critically acclaimed crime drama directed by Francis Ford Coppola. In the film, the character Clemenza advises his protégé on dealing with a rival family, saying "Go to the mattresses," meaning to prepare for war and take the conflict to the enemy's territory.
The origin of the idiom "go to the mattresses" is closely tied to Mafia culture, specifically regarding the significance of mattresses. In Mafia lore, mattresses were often used as hiding spots for weapons and money. By invoking this idiom, one is suggesting a willingness to resort to violence and emphasizing the need for secrecy and preparedness.
While the idiom has its roots in organized crime, it has since been adopted into general usage to describe any situation where individuals or groups come together to confront a common adversary. Whether in the realm of business, politics, or personal relationships, "going to the mattresses" signifies taking a decisive stand against opposition. It often implies a willingness to endure physical or emotional hardship in the pursuit of victory.
An idiomatic phrase closely related to "go to the mattresses" is "go to the mat." This expression conveys a similar sentiment of engaging in a determined struggle or confrontation. By going "to the mat," one is prepared to fight until the end, displaying unwavering determination and resolve.
Another related idiom is "go for the throat." This phrase shares the theme of aggression and assertiveness found in "go to the mattresses." In a conflict, going "for the throat" means targeting the most vulnerable or significant aspect of the opponent to ensure a decisive victory.
These idioms illustrate the idea of entering into a battle or confrontation fully prepared and with the intention of achieving a definitive outcome. They emphasize the need for determination, strategic thinking, and a willingness to confront opposition head-on.
While the exact etymology of "go to the mattresses" in the English language is somewhat unclear, its connection to the Italian expression "andare ai materassi" is evident. The idiom's association with Mafia culture and the notion of secret preparations adds intrigue to its usage. Despite its somewhat elusive origins, "go to the mattresses" has become a powerful metaphor widely recognized in American English, capturing the idea of entering into conflict with all resources available and the determination to emerge victorious.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "go to the mattresses" can be used in a sentence:
- After years of tense negotiations, the two countries decided to go to the mattresses and engage in a full-scale military conflict.
- The company faced a fierce competition in the market, so they had to go to the mattresses by offering discounted prices and aggressive marketing tactics.
- In order to win the championship, the coach told the team they would need to go to the mattresses and give 110% effort in every game.
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