Keep your wits about you

Meaning

Stay alert and think clearly under pressure.

Usage

Used as a warning to stay focused in tense situations.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Old English expression linking mental faculties to wit.

Common in adventure writing and safety advice.