It has been suggested, albeit without any evidence, that this phrase came about because of an inaccurate analysis of anatomical functions made by the ancient Greeks. They placed the seat of thought in the heart.
Here are two more terms that are very closely related.rote
The phrase "learn by rote" indicates something learned by repetition.
Examples:
Each school child has the multiplication tables drilled into their brain through rote memory.
I remember learning that song by rote in the sixth grade.
Origin:
This phrase means "to learn by the wheel" and is derived from rota, the Latin word for "wheel." The allusion is to turning the thought over and over in the mind or saying it over and over again in much the same way as a wheel goes around and around.
down pat
Example:
Most school children have the multiplication tables down pat before they enter high school.
Origin:
No one seems to know the origin of this term, but its meaning is to know something "exactly."