twinkle in one's daddy's eye en · X
Etymology
From a song, "When You Were a Smile on Your Mother's Lips (and a Twinkle in Your Daddy's Eye)", written for the 1934 film, Dames; derived from the presumption that prior to the conception of a baby, the father was sexually aroused, and this arousal was reflected in a pleased look in the father's eyes.
Meanings
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Of a person, not yet conceived, particularly when referring to a time period preceding their conception.
Kid, I've been running fight outfits since long before you were a twinkle in your daddy's eye.
2016, Mackenzie Crowne, To Win Her Heart, page 51:The Great Wilkie and Little Win were the biggest draw on the halls when you were not so much as a twinkle in your daddy's eye.
1977, Paul Bailey, Peter Smart's Confessions, page 96:Bean Toomey was upholding the law when you were still just a twinkle in your daddy's eye.
1994, Suzanne Elizabeth, Kiley's Storm, page 144: