What is the etymology of Johnny on the spot?

Answer 1

Well, honey, "Johnny on the spot" is thought to have originated in the early 19th century, referring to someone who is always ready and available to help or take action. Some believe it may have been inspired by the name of a portable toilet company called "Johnny on the Spot." So, next time you need someone reliable in a pinch, just remember to call on good ol' Johnny!

Answer 2

Oh, dude, you want to know where "Johnny on the spot" comes from? Well, it's like this phrase that means being conveniently available, but like, the origin is kinda murky. Some say it's from a portable toilet company called Johnny on the Spot, but who really knows, right? Just one of those things that people say without really thinking about it.

Answer 3

The Dictionary of American Slang says it's been around since about 1895 but gives no further explanation of its origin. The name John and its relatives (Jacques, Jack, Johnny . . . ) turn up in many phrases to mean an unspecified male, as in John Doe. JOHNNIE -- "Johnnie meant fellow, chap in English by the 17th century and a man-about-town in the 1880s. 'Johnny-Come-Lately' was in use in America by the 1830s. 'Johnny-on-the-spot' by the 1890s and 'stage-door Johnny' by 1912.'" From "John and Mary:Common First Names," a chapter in "Listening to America" by Stuart Berg Flexner (Simon and Schuster, New York, 1982). Johnny-on-the-spot is a noun that means "an unusually alert fellow who is capable of decisive action, seizing an opportunity, etc. Also (obs.) 'Johnny-on-the-job.' 1896 Ade 'Artie' 19: She was settin' over in the corner, and a Johnny-on-the-spot, with a big badge, marked 'Committee,' was tryin' to keep cases on her. Ibid. 63. I'll be Johnny-on-the-spot to see that everything's on the level.'" From the "Random House Historical Dictionary of American Slang, Volume 1, H-O" by J.E. Lighter, Random House, New York, 1994.