salt away: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "salt away" is derived from the Middle English word "salt" meaning salt. It is believed to have originated from the practice of preserving food by salting it, which was common before the invention of refrigeration. The idiom refers to the act of saving or storing something, often money or resources, for future use.

The origins of the idiom "salt away" can be traced back to seafaring and exploration during the 17th century when salt was a valuable commodity. Sailors would bring back salt from their voyages, which was then used for preserving food and preserving their provisions for long journeys.

Over time, the meaning of "salt away" extended beyond simply preserving food. It came to encompass the idea of saving or storing anything valuable for the future. This could include money, resources, or even knowledge and skills.

The idiom "salt away" is commonly used in American English in both casual conversation and writing. It is used to convey the idea of setting aside something for later use or keeping something safe and secure. For example, one might say, "I'm going to salt away some money for a rainy day," meaning they will save money for future emergencies or unexpected expenses. The phrase "save something for a rainy day" is a related idiom that conveys a similar meaning.

The idiom "save something for a rainy day" is often used interchangeably with "salt away" to express the act of setting aside something valuable for future use. Just as salt was used to preserve food for long journeys at sea, saving something for a rainy day implies preparing for future challenges or difficulties. It suggests the importance of being prepared and having resources readily available when needed.

The idiom "not worth salt" is another related expression that is used to indicate that something or someone is not deserving of respect or consideration. The phrase originates from the ancient Roman practice of paying soldiers in salt, as it was considered a valuable commodity at the time. If something is not worth its weight in salt, it implies that it is of little value or importance.

Furthermore, the idiom "piss away" is used to express the act of carelessly wasting or squandering something of value. It conveys the idea of letting something valuable slip away through neglect or misuse. In contrast, "salt away" encourages responsible saving and storing of resources for future use.

The idiom "salt away" has its roots in the practice of preserving food with salt and has evolved to signify saving or storing something for future use. It is a widely recognized and understood idiom in American English, conveying the concept of setting aside or keeping something safe and secure. While its origins may be firmly rooted in the past, the idiom continues to be used in contemporary language, reflecting the enduring nature of the idea of preservation and saving.