Cost an Arm and a Leg

Etymology:

• It is a very popular American expression of the 20th century. This expression became popular after items of daily use became expensive. But this term is more common for items of luxury. It is also argued that this term was used in ancient Europe, where people were given the severe punishment of cutting an arm and a leg. It was considered to deprive a person of his valuable limbs. This act was later given the form of this expression. Though the practice is not followed anymore but the idiom is used in different and meaningful context.