U

Uncle Sam
The patriotic Uncle Sam beame a famous symbol during World War II on recruiting posters. The exact origin is unknown, but may have been from a Troy NY meat packer or inspector who signed his boxes "U.S." because those were his initials.

Up the apples and pears
Slang for up the stairs. Its origin is unclear however a site visitor said it may have originated through cockney ryming slang..

Under the Weather
This popular phrase for "ill" dates back to 1827. It is commonly believed that bad weather can make you sick.

Use Your Loaf
The term "Use your loaf " comes from WW1 when trench warfare played a large part in battle. Sniperfire was rampant so if a soldier who had been lying in a trench for some time and popped his head up to see if all was clear he'd be likely to lose it. So instead they used to stick a loaf of bread from their rations on their bayonet and raise that in the air instead. Just thought i'd share that one for ya readers.

Up a blind alley
Meaning on the wrong track. Any alley with no clear or visible passage can be blind.