According to Google, the expression came from a Dr Kitchiner, who lived in the late 18th/early 19th century and advocated a nap of about 40 minutes to rejuvenate yourself during the day.
I used to have a boss who would shut himself in his office for a short time (not quite as long as 40 minutes, but maybe 10 or 15) and emerge feeling fresh as a daisy, so maybe Dr Kitchiner was on to something!
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I was scratching my head for 'wick' earlier - I had friends at university from N'ards!
I'd thought this usage of 'lush' was a purely west country phenomenon. Though I imagine it sounds pretty different in the two accents.
I used to have a boss who would shut himself in his office for a short time (not quite as long as 40 minutes, but maybe 10 or 15) and emerge feeling fresh as a daisy, so maybe Dr Kitchiner was on to something!
I used - a few years ago - "Cute as a button" - and it really struck me that this was an odd expression.
And their origins are less important than the sad fact that they are dying out.
Never mind, we'll soon all be pushing up the daisies!