> Hmm. I've never heard that expression, but here's some speculation...
>
> Red hair is generally associated with a bad temper or a "fiery" personality, so my guess would be that a "red-headed stepchild" is viewed as particularly troublesome. But I'm sure someone who knows what he's talking about will answer you and make me look like an idiot. :-}
>
> ~Mina "used to have scary red hair" moon

I've heard the expression for years, but I've never really thought about what it means. Considering that I have what is often called red hair, I've never liked the phrase much, and I've certainly never used it. I did have a friend who used it occasionally just to tease me, and that was usually funny, but that was an exception.

At any rate, I think Mina probably got the explanation right. Sam and Leen hadn't heard the phrase either, so it must be a West Coast or Mid-West thing. Maybe it's one of those expressions that can't really be explained?

Ell"NO, I do NOT have a bad temper! NEVAR!!11"myruh