A pig in a poke

Farm Idioms Quiz
 
If you've got a pig in a poke - what exactly is a poke?
 
 



A pig in a poke" refers to a deal or purchase made without prior inspection, often leading to regret or disappointment due to hidden flaws or misrepresentations.
Meaning
The phrase "a pig in a poke" is an idiom that cautions against buying something without first examining it. It implies that one should be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, as they may conceal undesirable qualities or outcomes. Essentially, it serves as a reminder to ensure that what you are purchasing is genuinely what you expect.
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Origin
The origin of this phrase dates back to the Middle Ages when merchants would sell pigs in bags (or "pokes"). Unscrupulous sellers might substitute a less valuable animal, such as a cat, for the pig, deceiving the buyer. The phrase thus evolved to symbolize the act of buying something without verifying its authenticity or quality.
Wikipedia
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The term "poke" itself is derived from the French word "poque," meaning a bag or sack, which is also related to the modern word "pocket." The idiom has been in use since at least the 16th century, with references found in literature from that time, including John Heywood's works.
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Related Expressions
The phrase has several equivalents in other languages, often conveying a similar warning about the risks of making uninformed purchases. For example, in French, the expression translates to "acheter un chat en poche," meaning "to buy a cat in a bag," which carries the same cautionary message.
Wikipedia
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In summary, "a pig in a poke" serves as a timeless reminder to inspect and verify before making a purchase, highlighting the importance of due diligence in transactions.