[Keith Seymore]

Originally Posted by Sirrotica

Also, tinker's dam.

Origin:
1830–40; from tinkers' alleged habit of cursing frequently (hence weakening the force of a curse)

I'm sorry to digress, but I thought the origin of "tinker's dam" had to do with silversmithing.

A silversmith was known as a "tinker" and worked with solder. They would use a clay like substance to keep the solder from running out of position, hence a "tinker's dam".

Also gave birth to the phrase "tinkerer" - as someone who putters around in a small shop.

I cannot cite references...

K