Qn. for Oct. 8th.

Identify the phrase X.

The origin of the phrase is not definitively known. However, popular etymology has risen to the challenge, and a vast number of explanations of varying degrees of plausibility have been suggested. The proposed sources have been as diverse as the volume of graves or concrete mixers; the length of bridal veils, kilts, burial shrouds, bolts of cloth, or saris; American football; ritual disembowelment; shipyards; and the structure of certain sailing vessels. Little documentary evidence has ever surfaced supporting any of these, and many labor under the significant disadvantage of being claimed as several centuries earlier than the first recorded use of the term. Perhaps the most frequently quoted is from World War II, where it is suggested that to "go X" was to fire an entire aircraft machine-gun ammunition belt.