What Does Screwed Blued And Tattooed Mean

The phrase “screwed, blued, and tattooed” has its origins in the US Navy during WWII, and is a saying used to describe someone or something that is prepared for battle in every way. “Screwed” refers to the wiring, cleaning, and checking of all equipment onboard a ship. “Blued” refers to the maintenance of guns and other armaments. By polishing the weapons regularly, they will be as good as new and ready for combat activities. “Tattooed” then refers to the ink markings used to record the ship’s vital statistics like speed, altitude, and navigation charts, ensuring the ship will be ready to fight. In a more modern sense, the phrase “screwed, blued and tattooed” is often used to describe someone who is very well prepared or ready to take on any task.