Silly boy lemon

[rubbisheeny]

Does anyone know the origin of the phrase 'silly boy lemon' often used to describe someone looking daft etc. Was said by my family throughout the 70's have heard others use it. Thanks

[Quizmonster]

A century ago, the word 'lemon' was used by criminals to mean anyone they could easily dupe or con out of money. Since then, it has taken on the idea of someone who is rather silly or even a complete simpleton.
I must confess I have never hear the whole phrase, 'silly boy lemon', but it is pretty clear where it came from.

[dr john]

Apparently Busted almost called themselves Silly Boy Lemon.

[VS Prasad]

Pop singers will be having some strange names. One
group with Tommy Boy and Harry Lemon made a pop
album named Silly Boy Lemon. It has become a hit in
some circles.

http://www.discogs.com/artist/Harry+Lemon

[rubbisheeny]

Ah, thanks everyone...

[winkster]

It was commonly used by my mother, born 1905, youngest of seven London sisters. I'm sure it was used in Victorian times. The complete phrase in the 30's was, "Silly Boy Lemon from the La-La School" and it referred to an effeminate male.