the plot thickens

== English == === Etymology === From the satirical play The Rehearsal. First attested in 1671. === Pronunciation === === Phrase === the plot thickens (idiomatic, often humorous) Used to describe an increasingly complex or mysterious situation. Hyponym: curiouser and curiouser 1672 George Villiers, 2nd Duke of Buckingham, The Rehearsal, Act III Scene ii: BAYES. Lo' you now, there he's off again. JOHNS. Admirably done i'faith. BAYES. Ay, now the Plot thickens very much upon us. 1703–4 Richard Steele The Lying Lover: Or, the Ladies Friendship Act II Scene i: Y. Book. Well said, Lad—and as Mr. Bays says, now the Plot thickens upon us, we'll spend our time as gaily as the best of 'em—and all of it in Love [...] ==== Translations ==== ==== References ====