Brand spanking new?

[warpig1]

Why do we call something brand 'spanking' new, what does the spanking refer to?

[jan1956]

not sure about the spanking but the brand should be bran as new things were shiped in bran tubs, the d has been added over the years
cheers
jan

[Quizmonster]

The 'brand' part actually comes from the same source as the idea of a 'brand' being a burning torch/device, as in the words 'firebrand' and �branding-iron'. The concept is that the thing concerned is so new it's as if it had just come from the furnace or blacksmith's forge. Shakespeare actually used the phrase 'fire new' in the same context.
'Spanking' is probably related to the Danish word 'spanke' which means to 'strut'. So, if something is 'spanking' it means it's showy and especially fine.

[THECORBYLOON]

We speak about something being "split new."

[Quizmonster]

In British English, 'spank' always involves the concept of punishment...although in certain circumstances the spankee might be delighted to receive such treatment! Babies here have their backs slapped.

[warpig1]

The spanking of a new baby makes sense, although I quite like Quismonster 'spankee' as well!!!