Why Is Dana...

[monster]

Originally Posted by Lamplighter

This link gives several (sort of academic) derivations.

But given my "through the looking glass" mentality,
I've assumed the association has to do with a woman's period.
Likewise, the words and phrases such as "ruddy" and "ragged on".

Thus:

.

As opposed to a man's period?

I thought it was "By Our Lady" rather than your lady, but the term definitely predates the modernistic view that anything regarding menses can be mentioned in public -as a swear word or not. Ditto the other two. Of course if that's really what you want to believe, no-one can stop you... enjoy your mental images........ (ew)

[Lamplighter]

Originally Posted by monster

As opposed to a man's period?

I thought it was "By Our Lady" rather than your lady,
but the term definitely predates the modernistic view that anything regarding menses
can be mentioned in public -as a swear word or not.
Ditto the other two. Of course if that's really what you want to believe,
no-one can stop you... enjoy your mental images........ (ew)

I personally do not (ever, or almost never) actually use such words
in general conversation because of such connotations for me.
But they do seem to be prevalent in British films.

I'm willing to listen...

How would a Brit use the words "ruddy" or "ragged on"
... without a distant association to menses ?
Or alternatively
... use them with an association to "by our lady" ?