The expression "keep your eyes peeled" (or skinned depending on region) is one of those sayings that doesn't sound like a wise or comfortable thing to do with one's eyes. As often is the case with idioms the exact origin is debatable. The meaning of the phrase is to be alert and observant. While some believe it to simply mean to keep your eyes open,as in peeling (opening) a banana. I prefer a more historically based explanation. In the 1820s in Britain Sir Robert Peel established the first organized police force. The officers were known as peelers or bobbies. They were expected to be observant and to keep their eye "peeled" as per their founder's orders.
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