Where does the saying work your socks off come from?

The saying "work your socks off" is believed to originate from the idea of working so hard that one sweats profusely, causing their socks to become damp or worn out. The phrase emphasizes the intensity and effort put into a task. While its exact origin is unclear, it has been commonly used in British English since the late 20th century to describe someone who is laboring diligently. The imagery of worn-out socks effectively conveys the notion of hard work and dedication.