The phrase “worth one’s salt” is in common use today. But, of course, for me, the question is how long has it been in use?

A Mineral More Valuable Than Gold

For most of us, salt is inexpensive and easy to find. If we run out, it might be inconvenient, but little more. We trot off to the store for more, a bit of iconvenience, but nothing more.

But during most of human history, salt was essential for survival. Before refrigeration, it was essential for preserving food. Meat, fish, and vegetables could be stored for months if properly salted. So, salt became a valuable trade commodity. Entire trade routes developed around its movement. Governments taxed it. Wars were fought over access to it. In some places, salt was so valuable that it served as currency. (Cacao beans were too, but that’s another kettle of fish—LOL.)

The expression “worth one’s salt” is linked to the Roman Empire. Roman soldiers received compensation known as a salarium, a Latin word connected to salt. This term gave us the English word “salary.” A popular story claims Roman soldiers were paid in salt. While historians agree this is an oversimplification, the connection between salt and military pay was strong enough that the association endured.

The modern phrase, used to describe someone who is competent, hardworking, or deserving of respect, appeared much later. The expression “worth his salt” emerged in English during the early nineteenth century. One of the earliest recorded examples appeared in 1805, making it fair game for any of my characters to say.

References

Cambridge Dictionary. 2025. “Worth One’s Salt.” https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/worth-salt

Grammarist. 2024 Worth One’s Salt. https://grammarist.com/idiom/worth-ones-salt/

Harper, Douglas. 2025. “Salary.” Online Etymology Dictionary. https://www.etymonline.com/word/salary

Martin, Gary. 2025. “Worth One’s Salt.” Phrase Finder. https://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/worth-ones-salt.html

Find more ‘You Can’t Say That” HERE