Shank's mare

[Geraldine Hizer]

"Date:    Wed, 16 Jan 2008 14:13:17 -0600
From:     Scot LaFaive <scotlafaive at GMAIL.COM>
Subject: Shank's mare

The  Merriam-Webster word of the day for Jan. 16 is "shank's mare." According
to  MW it's been around at least since the 17th century. I can't check DARE,
but  I'm mildly curious if it is or was a regionalism in the U.S. Personally,
I  had never heard of this name for one's own legs before today.

Scot"

I love this expression - have even used it, think it's so colorful. Do  a lot
of reading (and writing) about medieval England, and I suppose  'shank' would
also be familiar term to a butcher present-day.
I'm eager to hear the exchange your letter generates.
Another query, if I may -
Does one wrack one's brain, or 'rack' it? As I use the word in  conversation,
I'm spelling it 'rack', as in the medieval torture  instrument...
I am loving this Digest:)
GH



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