(someone) could sell ice to Eskimos In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "(someone) could sell ice to Eskimos", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

Julia Huong

2022-07-26 12:07

Meaning of (someone) could sell ice to Eskimos

Synonyms:

(someone) could sell an icebox to an Eskimo , (someone) could sell sawdust to a lumber mill

(someone) could sell ice to Eskimos phrase informal

Someone is such a smooth or convincing salesperson that they can sell things to people who don't need or use it.

The salesman was a real fast talker, and somehow managed to convince me to buy an extra car. He could sell ice to Eskimos.

Origin of (someone) could sell ice to Eskimos

The phrase refers to the numerous indigenous peoples of the world's typically frigid, snowy northern circumpolar areas, who would consequently have an abundance of (and no need to buy) ice. However, it should be used with caution because the term "Eskimo" is regarded insulting or pejorative by some.