Alltop.com

According to Mark S. Longo, many of our common phrases have nautical roots. For example, “chewing the fat” refers to eating salted beef and pork. These delicacies were so tough that it took a lot of chewing, so sailors would sit around talking while “chewing the fat.” He also explains terms like “slush fund,” “by and large,” and “under the weather.” Interesting reading for those who want to learn the origin of phrases.

More on history.