To give the floor

[Rico]

Any idea where this phrase comes from?

[Quizmonster]

'Floor', in this sense, originated in 18th century United States politics. It referred, of course, to the area where members of an assembly sat or stood to make speeches - as opposed to any gallery or balcony that existed. The 'floor' idea is still used in the British Parliament, too. If an MP swaps his allegiance from Conservative to Labour, say, he is said to have "crossed the floor"...ie gone to the other side of the chamber.

Consequently, to 'give the floor' is a phrase normally used when someone actually speaking gives way to another who has made it clear he/she wishes to intervene.