Put This In Your Pipe And Smoke It

The idiom "put that in your pipe and smoke it" is a colorful and rather antiquated expression, typically used to dismiss someone's statement, suggestion, or boast as absurd, irrelevant, or simply unacceptable. It's a way of saying, "Think about that, because it's not going to happen," or "That's your opinion, but it's worthless to me." The phrase conjures images of a bygone era, where leisurely pipe-smoking was a common pastime, adding a layer of old-fashioned charm and a touch of defiance to the rejection. Let's delve into the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of this intriguing idiom.

Origins of the Phrase

The precise origin of "put that in your pipe and smoke it" is somewhat murky, with no definitive historical record pinpointing its exact birth. However, its roots can be traced back to the 19th century, a time when tobacco smoking, particularly pipe smoking, was a widespread social habit, especially among men. Pipes were not just a means of consuming tobacco; they were symbols of relaxation, contemplation, and even status.

The phrase likely emerged from the imagery of someone puffing on a pipe, lost in thought, perhaps pondering a difficult or disagreeable idea. The act of "putting" something "in your pipe and smoking it" suggests a forced contemplation of an unwelcome notion. It's as if to say, "Here, you deal with this preposterous idea; I certainly won't."

Over time, the phrase evolved from a literal description of considering an idea while smoking to a more figurative expression of rejection and dismissal. The earliest documented instances of the phrase appear in the mid-19th century in various literary works and personal letters, indicating its gradual integration into everyday language.

Meaning and Usage

At its core, "put that in your pipe and smoke it" is an expression of contemptuous dismissal. It serves as a blunt, albeit somewhat humorous, way of rejecting someone's statement or proposal. The phrase carries several layers of meaning:

Rejection: It unequivocally rejects the idea or statement presented. There's no room for negotiation or compromise.
Dismissal: It dismisses the idea as unworthy of further consideration. It's seen as foolish, impractical, or simply wrong.
Defiance: It conveys a sense of defiance, indicating that the speaker will not be swayed or influenced by the other person's views.
Superiority: It can sometimes imply a sense of superiority, suggesting that the speaker knows better and that the other person's opinion is naive or misguided.

The phrase is typically used in informal settings, such as conversations among friends, family members, or colleagues. It's less common in formal or professional contexts, where more diplomatic language is expected. It's also more likely to be used in spoken language than in written communication, although it can occasionally appear in informal writing, such as personal blogs or social media posts.

Examples in Context

To better understand the usage of "put that in your pipe and smoke it," consider the following examples:

Scenario: A junior employee suggests a radical new marketing strategy to their manager. The manager, unimpressed, replies, "Put that in your pipe and smoke it. We're sticking with what we know works."
- Meaning: The manager is rejecting the employee's suggestion and indicating that the company will continue with its existing marketing strategy.
Scenario: During a political debate, one candidate makes an outrageous claim about their opponent. The opponent retorts, "Put that in your pipe and smoke it! Everyone knows that's a blatant lie."
- Meaning: The candidate is dismissing the claim as false and challenging its credibility.
Scenario: A child demands a pony for their birthday. Their parent replies, "Put that in your pipe and smoke it. You're not getting a pony."
- Meaning: The parent is firmly rejecting the child's request.
Scenario: Two friends are arguing about which football team is better. One friend says, "My team is going to win the championship this year!" The other friend replies, "Put that in your pipe and smoke it. Your team doesn't stand a chance."
- Meaning: The friend is dismissing the other's optimistic prediction and expressing confidence in their own team.
Scenario: A homeowner receives an unsolicited offer to sell their house for a ridiculously low price. The homeowner responds, "Put that in your pipe and smoke it! My house is worth much more than that."
- Meaning: The homeowner is rejecting the offer as insultingly low.

Cultural Significance

The phrase "put that in your pipe and smoke it" holds cultural significance beyond its literal meaning. It reflects a particular attitude and worldview, rooted in a time when individual autonomy and self-reliance were highly valued.

Individualism: The phrase emphasizes the speaker's independent judgment and their refusal to be swayed by external opinions. It reflects a strong sense of self and a belief in one's own ability to make decisions.
Skepticism: It embodies a healthy skepticism towards claims and proposals, encouraging critical thinking and a refusal to accept things at face value.
Humor: The phrase injects a touch of humor into what might otherwise be a confrontational situation. The image of someone pondering an idea while smoking a pipe adds a lighthearted element to the rejection.
Nostalgia: It evokes a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era, when life was perceived as simpler and more leisurely. The association with pipe smoking conjures images of relaxed contemplation and old-fashioned values.

Variations and Similar Expressions

While "put that in your pipe and smoke it" is the most common form of the idiom, several variations and similar expressions convey a similar meaning:

"Chew on that": This phrase invites the listener to consider something carefully, often with a hint of challenge or defiance.
"Think about that": A more direct way of asking someone to consider the implications of a statement or proposal.
"Take that and like it": This phrase implies that the speaker is imposing something on the listener, whether they like it or not.
"Suck on that": A more vulgar and aggressive version of "chew on that," often used to express gloating or triumph.
"Get stuffed": A British slang term meaning "go away" or "leave me alone," often used to express annoyance or rejection.
"Tell it to the marines": This idiom is used to express disbelief or skepticism, suggesting that the listener's story is unlikely to be true.

The Demise of Pipe Smoking and the Idiom's Longevity

Interestingly, the prevalence of pipe smoking has declined significantly in modern times due to health concerns and changing social norms. However, the idiom "put that in your pipe and smoke it" has persisted, demonstrating the power of language to outlive its literal origins.

The phrase's continued usage can be attributed to several factors:

Figurative Meaning: The phrase has evolved beyond its literal association with pipe smoking and has taken on a broader figurative meaning of rejection and dismissal.
Catchiness: The phrase is memorable and catchy, making it easy to recall and use in conversation.
Humor: The phrase's humorous tone adds to its appeal and makes it a more palatable way of expressing disagreement.
Cultural Significance: The phrase embodies certain cultural values, such as individualism and skepticism, that continue to resonate with people today.
Literary and Media Exposure: The phrase has appeared in numerous books, movies, and television shows, further cementing its place in popular culture.

Modern Interpretations and Adaptations

In contemporary usage, "put that in your pipe and smoke it" is often used ironically or humorously, particularly in online communication. It can be used as a playful way of disagreeing with someone or dismissing their opinion, without necessarily intending to be offensive.

The phrase has also been adapted and modified in various ways to suit different contexts and audiences. For example, some people might replace "pipe" with a more contemporary smoking device, such as a "vape," to update the phrase. Others might use the phrase in a self-deprecating way, applying it to their own ideas or suggestions.

The internet and social media have also played a role in the phrase's continued popularity, with numerous memes and online discussions featuring the idiom. Its adaptability and enduring appeal suggest that "put that in your pipe and smoke it" will likely remain a part of the English language for years to come.

Conclusion

"Put that in your pipe and smoke it" is more than just a quaint idiom; it's a window into a bygone era and a reflection of enduring cultural values. Its origins in the 19th century, its association with pipe smoking, and its evolution into a figurative expression of rejection and dismissal all contribute to its unique charm and lasting appeal. While the act of pipe smoking may have faded in popularity, the idiom "put that in your pipe and smoke it" continues to thrive, reminding us of the power of language to capture and convey complex ideas in a concise and memorable way. Whether used in earnest or in jest, the phrase remains a colorful and evocative way of telling someone that their ideas are simply not welcome. So, the next time you hear someone say, "Put that in your pipe and smoke it," you'll know that they're not just offering you a puff of tobacco; they're delivering a blunt, yet humorous, rejection.