Know your Nautical terminology
These nautical phrases in common use are brought to you by the good people at C.A.N.O.E., aka the Committee to Attribute a Nautical Origin to Everything.
To turn a blind eye to — to refuse to see or recognize something
Long shot — an improbable occurance; from the short effective range of naval guns during the age of sail
As the crow flies — in a straight line, the shortest route between two points
Over a barrel — in a helpless, weak, or awkward position; unable to act
Know the ropes — to understand or be familiar with the particulars of a subject or business
The bitter end — the very end of something, however unpleasant it is
Slush fund — money set aside by a business or other organization for corrupt activities or money set aside to use for fun or entertainment expenses
Three sheets to the wind — in a state of drunkenness or intoxication
Start over with a clean slate — an opportunity to start over without prejudice
Son of a gun — a person or fellow, a rascal
Scuttlebutt — rumors about somebody’s activities, often of an intimate and scandalous nature
First rate — foremost in quality, rank, or importance
WWG1WGA
Garde la Foi, mes amis! Nous nous sommes les sauveurs de la République! Maintenant et Toujours!
(Keep the Faith, my friends! We are the saviors of the Republic! Now and Forever!)
LonePalm, le Républicain du verre cassé (The Broken Glass Republican)