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English Idioms and Phrases: A Ruby Murray
Meaning
A Ruby Murray, or sometime simply referred to as 'a Ruby' is an alternative for Curry.
"Does anyone want a Ruby tonight?"
"I could murder a Ruby tonight" - to murder in this sense means the speaker has a strong desire to eat a curry.
Origin
"A Ruby Murray" is an example Cockney rhyming slang. This form of speech originated in the east end of London , hence the name Cockney. It is thought to have started as a way for people to speak without the police to understand what they meant, or alternatively for people who were trading in the markets. This form of speech is not a typical in everyday conversation, but most English people will understand the references.
Ruby Murray was a popular Northern Irish singer who died in 1996 hit her height of fame in the 1950's and 60's with her most popular hit being "Softly, Softly" released in 1955.
People took her name as her surname rhymed with Curry, therefore a 'Ruby Murray' became a curry. This is similar to 'Hank Marvin' or 'Chevy Chase'
Alternatives or Synonyms
Curry