pig in a poke

The phrase "pig in a poke" refers to a deceptive or risky purchase or transaction, where the buyer cannot fully examine or assess the item or goods before making the deal. It often implies a situation where the buyer is being swindled or deceived into making a purchase without adequate knowledge or understanding of what they are actually getting. The phrase originates from the practice of dishonest sellers presenting a bag or sack (poke) containing a young pig, which could be anything else inside, instead of allowing the buyer to inspect the pig before buying it.