The cut of one's jib

Meaning

The characteristic style or appearance of a person, often indicating their character or personality.

Origin

Imagine a foggy morning at sea in the 18th century, a time when maritime prowess defined nations. Sailors, with eyes honed by the horizon, could discern the identity, purpose, and even the character of a distant ship simply by observing its sails. The 'jib'—a triangular foresail—was particularly telling. Its unique 'cut' or shape, specific to a ship's design or national rigging, offered crucial clues about its speed, agility, and even its allegiance. From how the jib was set, a seasoned mariner could gauge the vessel's intentions and capabilities. This acute visual assessment of a ship's 'character' quickly translated to land, becoming a vivid metaphor for judging a person's disposition, nature, or trustworthiness based on their outward appearance or demeanor, just as one might size up a ship from its distinctive sail.

Examples

I like the cut of his jib; he seems like someone we can trust to get the job done right.
From the cut of her jib, I could tell she wasn't going to back down from the challenge.