Hi,
I am quite interested in etymologies - more of phrases, than words - and would really like to know the origins/coinage of the following phrases & the stories behind them (i.e. the who/when/how/why - in short, the whole kit and caboodle!):
1) Affirmative action
2) Brain drain
3) Phrases like " he wept in his shirt-sleeves" & "he wept with his pants on". I mean, how does someone come up with something like that?!!

I'd be grateful if you could get back to me with the answers at quizzersapru@gmail.com.
Thank you.
Cheers,
Shantanu.


Cogito ergo sum!