The expression "fell off wagon" is often used to describe the act of relapsing into bad habits, such as addiction or overindulgence. The spelling of the word "wagon" uses the phonetic transcription /ˈwæɡən/ to represent the 'w', 'a', 'g', and 'n' sounds. The 'o' and 'n' at the end of the word are silent. This phrase is believed to originate from the Temperance Movement in the 1800s, where individuals would pledge to abstain from alcohol by signing a pledge on a wagon. If someone broke their pledge, they were said to have "fallen off the wagon."
"Fell off the wagon" is an idiomatic phrase that originated in the early 20th century and is typically used in informal conversations to describe a person's relapse into a previously abandoned bad habit or addiction, particularly the consumption of alcohol after a period of sobriety.
The term "wagon" in this context refers to the temperance wagon, which was used during the Temperance Movement to transport individuals advocating for sobriety. "Falling off the wagon" implies that the person has metaphorically fallen off the vehicle and succumbed to their addiction or bad habit. It suggests a reversal of progress and a return to the behavior that one had previously managed to overcome or abstain from.
This phrase is most commonly associated with alcoholism, but it can also be applied to other habits or addictions such as smoking, gambling, or drug abuse. The individual's act of "falling off the wagon" often comes with feelings of disappointment, regret, and shame. It may also serve as a turning point that triggers a renewed commitment to rehabilitating or changing one's behavior.
Overall, "falling off the wagon" serves as a cautionary reminder of the fragility and challenges faced by individuals trying to break free from addictive patterns. It highlights the need for ongoing support, self-awareness, and resilience in maintaining long-term recovery.