The Inner Market…

Usually I’m armed to the teeth with ideas for the challenges but today I simply couldn’t think of anything silly. And that is my saying today.

Armed to the teeth (metaphor)
Meaning
fully equipped with weapons.
heavily armed or possessing a large number of weapons.
completely prepared with all necessary tools or equipment.
physically and mentally ready to compete with others in any field.
well-prepared to start a new project or task.
Origin and History
One widely accepted theory is that the phrase originates from the Middle Ages. During this period, the expression “to the teeth” was used to mean “completely” or “fully,” much like “from head to toe.” Therefore, an individual fully armed with weapons from head to toe would be considered “armed to the teeth.” This aligns with the medieval context of knights, who were heavily armored and equipped with weapons all over their bodies.
French Influence
Another significant origin points to the French phrase “armé jusqu’aux dents,” which translates to “armed to the teeth.” This phrase was first recorded in the 16th century, specifically in Jacques Grévin’s comedy La Trésorière in 1558. This French phrase paints a vivid picture of a combatant armed so extensively that even their teeth were utilised to hold weapons.
Pirate Connections
The idiom is also linked to the Golden Age of Piracy in the 17th century, particularly in Port Royal, Jamaica. Pirates were known to carry an extensive array of weapons, including knives and cutlasses, sometimes even clenching a small knife between their teeth as they prepared for battle. Literature and film have popularised this portrayal of pirates armed to the teeth, contributing to the romanticised image of swashbuckling buccaneers.
Earliest printed records
In English literature, one of the earliest recorded uses of “armed to the teeth” appears in Memoirs of the Baron de Tott (1788), where it describes Asiatics dispersed in the capital, armed to the very teeth and ready to rob passengers. This usage underscores the idea of being excessively armed and prepared for conflict, a theme consistent across various historical contexts.
Scottish Connection
A more regional theory suggests that the idiom could have origins in Scotland. It is believed that travellers along the River Teith, a trading post situated between hostile territories, would arm themselves heavily to protect against potential attacks. This practical need for self-defence while travelling through a dangerous area may have given rise to the phrase “armed to the Teith,” later evolving into “armed to the teeth.”
Figurative Usage
Today, “armed to the teeth” has expanded beyond its literal sense. It is often used figuratively to describe someone who is thoroughly prepared for any situation, whether in terms of arguments, resources, or other forms of readiness. This versatility in usage highlights the phrase’s enduring relevance and adaptability in modern language.
Source: theidioms.com