gone north about: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "gone north about" is a lesser-known phrase in English that is primarily used in American English. It is rarely heard in other English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom or Australia. When examining the phrase itself, it becomes apparent that "gone north about" is a combination of the verb "gone" and the directional term "north about." Despite its seemingly straightforward composition, the precise meaning of "gone north about" is not immediately clear.

One plausible explanation suggests that "gone north about" originally referred to someone losing their temper or becoming irritable. The phrase may have derived from the idea of "going north" as a metaphorical representation of moving away or distancing oneself from a situation or individual that provokes frustration.

Another theory proposes that "gone north about" could have originated from the concept of seeking refuge or escaping to the north. As the northern regions of the United States were historically associated with freedom and safety for enslaved individuals during the time of the Underground Railroad, the idiom might have been used to imply fleeing or eluding someone or something.

Despite these theories, it is important to acknowledge the lack of concrete evidence or historical documentation supporting any specific origin or meaning of the idiom "gone north about." It is possible that the true etymology of this phrase has been lost to time.

While the idiom "gone north about" may not be widely recognized or frequently used in modern conversation, it presents an intriguing linguistic puzzle. Its enigmatic nature invites speculation and contemplation, offering a glimpse into the complexity and ever-evolving nature of language.

Furthermore, the idiom serves as a reminder of the vast array of idiomatic expressions within the English language. Whether rooted in history, culture, or personal experiences, these phrases encapsulate entire narratives and evoke diverse emotions. The exploration of idioms, like "gone north about," fosters an appreciation for the richness and diversity of human expression.

In addition to "gone north about," there are several related idioms that share similar themes and contexts. One such idiom is "gone with the wind," which refers to something that has disappeared or vanished without a trace. This phrase suggests a sense of sudden and complete departure, much like the mysterious nature of "gone north about."

Another related idiom is "head south," which signifies a decline or deterioration. This expression is often used to describe a situation or endeavor that is going poorly or failing. While "gone north about" and "head south" have different literal meanings, they both convey a sense of movement or change in a specific direction.

The idiom "to go" is a versatile expression that can be used in a variety of contexts. It can mean to leave or depart, similar to the verb "gone" in "gone north about." However, "to go" can also be used to describe progression, development, or achievement. This broad range of meanings demonstrates the flexible nature of idiomatic expressions.

On the other hand, the idiom "go nowhere" is used to describe a lack of progress or success. It implies a state of stagnation or being stuck in a situation without any forward movement. While "gone north about" suggests some form of direction or movement, "go nowhere" conveys the opposite - a lack of direction or purpose.

The idiom "gone north about" is a unique and somewhat enigmatic expression in the English language. Its specific origin and meaning remain uncertain, but theories suggest connections to frustration, escape, and movement. While not widely used today, this idiom invites contemplation and highlights the diversity of idiomatic expressions within the English language. The related idioms "gone with the wind," "head south," "to go," and "go nowhere" offer further insights into the themes of departure, direction, and progress that are present in "gone north about."