Davy Jones' Locker
WiktionaryText
Etymology
There has been much speculation about the origin of this term, but none has been substantiated.
Proper noun
- The ocean, especially as the grave for sailors.
- 1774: Nicholas Cresswell, The Journal of Nicholas Cresswell, 1774-7 - "Damn my eyes," says he, "they are gone to Davy Jones's locker." This is a common saying when anything goes overboard.
- NOTE: Partridge erroneously refers to this as from the journal of Richard rather than Nicholas Cresswell.
- 1774: Nicholas Cresswell, The Journal of Nicholas Cresswell, 1774-7 - "Damn my eyes," says he, "they are gone to Davy Jones's locker." This is a common saying when anything goes overboard.