Clever clogs

[fredpuli47]

Why 'clever clogs' as a humorous description of someone who gives a bright answer? Is it just that the repeated 'cl' suits the phrase or is there some significance in the choice of 'clogs' ?

[Quizmonster]

Given that cleverboots has also been used, I imagine your idea re alliteration of 'cl' is the correct explanation. On the other hand, I'm not too sure why brightness should be associated with footwear!

[jno]

people used to keep their footwear bright, QM, but I don't suppose you can do that with trainers. As for smartypants...

[Quizmonster]

Not only pants, J! Sides, jacks, kins guts and pots have all also been tacked onto clever to describe a 'bright' person...and I won't even mention the diminutive of Richard in that role!

[Quizmonster]

Oh...I meant to add that I, at least, still keep my footwear bright, but then, I still part my hair, too!

[Dewi]

Possibly originates from cotton or woolen mills in the north
Workers wore clogs to work - First example of safety shoes ?