Etymology

off like a bride's nightie

Today it means: Making a rapid departure; away. Full definition →

First used 1960.
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The story

A reference to the supposed eagerness of just-married couples to have sexual intercourse on the night of their wedding. Australian from 1960.

First known use, by meaning

  • From 1960. Making a rapid departure; away.
  • From 1960. Moving quickly and resolutely.

Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.