Origin of phrase They are "an item"

[GabbyLoggon]

They are an ITEM. I know what it means but where did it originate.

It gets used a lot in the press. Whats wrong with "they are a couple." or "they are
shacking up." or even "Married"

PS I refuse to be calle an ITEM cheers.

Are you being unreasonable what?

An item in the newspaper, probably, as in "X and Y have just announced their engagement."

pleease

at Stealth.

Serious?