AboutCarol Pozefsky Expertise Etymology: The origins of English words and phrases.
Anchor/Reporter NBC and CBS Networks. News Director 3 Regional Radio Stations.
Question I am wondering about the origins of this common phrase "Ol buddy, ol' pal, ol' friend of mine" - I cannot find any references to where it comes from. I assume it may be from a book or story, or perhaps a more recent pop culture origin such as a movie or TV show. Thanks for looking into this!
Answer Hello, I hope you're having a fine week.
You probably are not finding 'Ol buddy, ol' pal, ol' friend of mine' in your etymology search because the words do not fit the category of 'common phrases.' For instance we often hear people greet each other by saying "What's up?" or "How are you doing?" or perhaps "You're looking really well." We hear these phrases often but they are simply part of generic English language not distinctive phrases.
'Ol buddy, ol' pal, ol' friend of mine' was heard quite often in the old sitcom "The Honeymooners" Ralph Cramden (played by Jackie Gleason) would refer to his good friend Ed Norton (played by Art Carney) in this way.
The best to you always.
CP
