Where did the expression “swear like a cobbler” come from?

The expression “swear like a cobbler” is thought to have originated in the 16th century and is believed to refer to the language that cobblers, or shoemakers, used when discussing their craft. As cobblers worked long hours in cramped, poorly lit workshops, they often used colorful language to express their frustrations. This language was often considered to be vulgar and inappropriate for polite company, and so the phrase “swear like a cobbler” came to be associated with the use of profanity.

Cobblers were also known to be quite superstitious, and they often used language that was believed to bring luck and ward off bad spirits. This language, which was often considered to be blasphemous, was also seen as inappropriate and gave rise to the expression “swear like a cobbler”.

The phrase has remained in use to this day, though its meaning has shifted slightly. It is now often used to describe someone who swears excessively, regardless of the context.