Etymology: Did You Know…

Red herring is smoked herring. They turn red when cured. White herring is fresh herring. Red herring was supposedly used by fugitives to put bloodhounds off their scent, which is where the term “red herring” came to be used as a mystery term for something used to divert attention from the truth: false clues.

2 Responses to “Etymology: Did You Know…”

1. Liam, Head Phil says:

   February 8, 2012 at 3:34 pm

   I did not know that about red herrings. That could be for two reasons: 1) because I don’t get out enough, or 2) because this post is a “red herring” diverting attention from the truth! Hmmm…

   Reply
   • Jill Williamson says:

     February 10, 2012 at 11:13 am

     LOL That’s funny, Liam!

     Reply