Where did the term "break a leg' come from?

Question

Where did the term "break a leg' come from?

Answer 1

should be more careful how did u do it

Answer 2

It's a superstition that it's bad luck to wish someone "good luck" before a performance.  

It's also thought it comes from the idea of bowing (the early bow was one straight leg and one bent), meaning your performance is so good that you'll be doing many bows.

Answer 3

nice question!!! i always knew why we said it but not where it originated...check this out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Break_a_leg

Answer 4

Basically its an ironic "good luck" as to not jinx someone performing.