take silk: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘take silk’ mean?
Take silk: This idiomatic expression refers to the act of becoming a Queen's Counsel in British legal system, where barristers appointed as QCs wear silk robes. It signifies achieving the prestigious status of a senior lawyer.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "white satin" refers to something that is considered elegant, luxurious, or high-quality. It is often used figuratively to describe a special occasion or an extravagant experience.
The idiom "the ball is in someone's court" means that it is now someone's turn or responsibility to take action or make a decision.
The idiom "take the fall" means to accept blame or punishment for a mistake or wrongdoing, often to protect someone else or to avoid greater consequences.
The idiom "take the cure" means to undergo a treatment, typically for an addiction or a medical condition, in order to recover or improve one's health.
The idiom "take the count" means to be knocked out or defeated in a boxing match.
The idiom "take the bait" means to fall for a trick or deception, often by reacting exactly as the trickster desires, thus becoming trapped or manipulated.
The idiom "take someone's part" means to support or defend someone in an argument or disagreement, often without considering the opposing viewpoint.
The idiom "take sides" means to choose or support one person, group, or opinion over another, often in a conflict or disagreement.
The idiom "take pride" means to feel a sense of satisfaction or pleasure in one's achievements, abilities, or personal qualities. It implies a feeling of self-respect and a recognition of one's own worth or value.
"Take on the chin" means to bravely and stoically accept a difficult or unpleasant situation, especially when facing criticism, defeat, or adversity.
Silk's Secret Significance
Take silk is an idiom that has its origins in the legal profession. In the United Kingdom, "take silk" refers to the act of becoming a Queen's Counsel. The term emerged in the mid-19th century and is believed to come from the practice of newly appointed Queen's Counsel receiving a piece of silk fabric as a symbol of their appointment. This gift of silk represents the honor and prestige associated with the title.
Becoming a Queen's Counsel, or "taking silk," is a highly prestigious achievement in the legal profession. It recognizes excellence in advocacy, legal expertise, and a proven track record of success in high-level cases. Queen's Counsel are appointed by the Queen on the advice of the Lord Chancellor, based on recommendations from the independent selection panel.
The idiom "call to the bar" is related to "take silk" as it also originates from the legal profession. "Call to the bar" refers to the formal admission of a person to practice as a barrister or advocate. Both idioms represent significant milestones in a legal career, with "call to the bar" marking the beginning of one's legal practice and "take silk" symbolizing the attainment of the highest level of expertise and recognition as a Queen's Counsel.
The idiom "take a bow" is related to "take silk" as it also conveys a sense of accomplishment and recognition. In a literal sense, "take a bow" refers to the action of a performer acknowledging applause or recognition by bowing. Metaphorically, it is used to praise and acknowledge someone's achievements or contributions. Similarly, when someone "takes silk," they are being acknowledged for their exceptional legal skills and expertise, receiving recognition for their accomplishments.
Traditionally, Queen's Counsel were predominantly male, but this has changed over time. In 1949, Rose Heilbron became the first woman to be appointed as a Queen's Counsel, breaking gender barriers in the legal profession. Since then, the number of female Queen's Counsel has steadily increased, reflecting greater gender equality in the legal field.
Today, the idiom "take silk" is still commonly used within legal circles in the United Kingdom. It signifies reaching a significant milestone in a legal career and being recognized for exceptional legal skills. The idiom is also used metaphorically in informal contexts to describe someone who has achieved a high level of proficiency or expertise in any field, not just in law.
While "take silk" is primarily used in the United Kingdom, similar idioms exist in other English-speaking countries. In the United States, for example, the term "take the robe" is used to refer to the appointment of a judge, particularly to a higher court. This demonstrates that the concept of honoring legal achievements with symbolic clothing is recognized and celebrated in different legal systems.
The idiom "take silk" originates from the legal profession and specifically refers to becoming a Queen's Counsel in the United Kingdom. The term "silk" alludes to the silk robe worn by Queen's Counsel barristers. This idiom represents a significant achievement in the legal profession and is used both literally and metaphorically to convey a sense of honor, expertise, and accomplishment. It is related to other legal idioms such as "call to the bar" and "take a bow," which also signify recognition and achievement within the legal field.
Example usage
1. After many years practicing law, he finally took silk and became a respected Queen's Counsel.
2. The talented young lawyer was offered an opportunity to take silk at a prestigious law firm.
3. She worked hard to gain experience and hone her skills, hoping one day to take silk and join the ranks of top barristers.
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