Three sheets to the wind

Meaning

Extremely drunk.

Usage

Used to describe someone heavily intoxicated.

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.

Sailor slang for loose ropes (sheets) that make a ship drift helplessly.

Used in maritime circles before spreading into general slang.