What is the origin of the all purpose Phrase "Any Tom Dick or Harry"? and its spin offs
We hear it every other day but where was it coined .Rough date as well
I suspect UK because Dick and Harry are in use a lot although its Southern England. Northerners tend to use Richard more instead of Dick.
I have cousins called Richard and Harry Both live in the Lancashire Area.

"Slang phrase every Tom, Dick, and Harry dates from at least 1734, from common Eng. given names."

Online Etymology Disctionary



"The list has included other names down the centuries, such as Jack and Will - Shakespeare has 'Tom, Dick and Francis' in Henry IV, Part I - but the current trio has been invariable since 1734. The names have no significance other than being common ones chosen at random."
source

Thanks Methos
Like the 2nd site (looks useful) Not seen anybody from the UK use this for a quote yet

*Have seen 1 saying on it which I Know to be Totally wrong (they say its Possibly Scottish) But I do know it to be of Irish Origin refers to something completely different
Shall post this as a triva question if I think on?

My brother's three male cats are Tom, Dick, and Harry!