Explanations/etymology also appreciated!

For Joe Shmoe, it means a very average or below average person. It’s a derivation of the practice of using “shm-” to dismiss something (eg “Practice shmactice. We’re already perfect”).

And “John Smith” is meant to be the most average name or person imaginable, so they have the “most common” (citation needed) first and last name as well.

  • @CuddlyCassowary
    link
    English
    61 year ago

    In England “the man on the Clapham omnibus” means your average citizen in legal terms.