Can you guess which classic TV show originated these common phrases?

Let's be careful out there (in this quiz)!

 

Everyday sayings can be so ingrained in our language that it can be difficult to even remember where they came from. But would you be shocked to learn that many of our popular phrases actually came from television? If you wouldn't be, you're sure to ace this quiz!

  1. We'll start with an easy one. When Jack Nicholson sticks his freaky little face through the door in The Shining and says, "Here's Johnny!" What popular talk show is he referencing?
  2. You might call someone a "Poindexter" to indicate that they're a bit of a dork. Where did the phrase originate?
  3. What show popularized the phrase "You rang?"
  4. The phrase "Get out of Dodge" means to get out of town or the area. What western originated the phrase?
  5. Although "Nimrod" was originally used to describe someone skilled, this television show used the word mockingly, leading many to assume the true use of the word was to actually describe someone who wasn't too bright.
  6. What television show popularized someone calling another person a "Meathead"?
  7. Which show originated the character of "Gomer," a name now used to insult people?
  8. If someone warns "Let's be careful out there," what show are they referencing?
  9. To "Jump the shark" is a phrase used to describe a show that has gone on too long. What television show depicts a plot that originates this phrase?

Can you guess which classic TV show originated these common phrases?

Your Result...

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122 Comments

murgatroid45 4 months ago
8 out of 9 Great job, Poindexter! Ironically that's the one I missed.
tbrian 7 months ago
You got 8 out of 9

Missed the nimrod.
RedSamRackham 7 months ago
* Perfect Score BUT Maynard G. Krebs on Dobie Gillis said "You rang?" long before Lurch on Addams Family!
Dajj 12 months ago
8/9. As the great Snagglepus once said, “Exit, stage right!”
Coldnorth 12 months ago
I know a high school who’s mascot are the Nimrods. No kidding
RedSamRackham Coldnorth 7 months ago
* Bugs Bunny indeed taught us to misunderstand meaning of Nimrod. We even laughed at a housing development called Nimrod Homes. BUT Looney Tunes did teach us to pronounce Yosemite correctly!
Coldnorth RedSamRackham 6 months ago
And what a maroon instead of moron
braycy 13 months ago
Hmmm 7/9 I've never referred to anyone as a 'Gomer' but called many idiots a 'Goober!'
Coldnorth braycy 6 months ago
I remember when my son was about 3 years old and was riding with my father in law in the car.My father in law called the guy a clown out of the side window. My son yelled you cwown !
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