Phrase of the hour
Hold water
To stand up or hold true, solid as fact.
Uncover the storyA curious dictionary of everyday English
Every odd phrase has
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Discover what peculiar British and American expressions mean, where they came from, and how people actually use them.
1,465
curious expressions
1,149
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2,335
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Plain-English meanings.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Folklore labelled honestly.
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A few curious finds
Tug at the heartstrings
To stir deep feelings of tenderness, pity, or compassion. Said of stories, images, music, or appeals that move people strongly and make them respond…
Meaning & originIn the pink
In top health or shape, glowing with vigor.
Meaning & originAll's well that ends well
A successful outcome can make earlier difficulties seem acceptable or unimportant. Often expresses relief, but it can minimise real harm; speakers…
Meaning & originRed tape
Excessive bureaucratic procedure and paperwork that delays action, especially adherence to official rules even when they serve no purpose. Usually…
Meaning & originThe whole shebang
The entire thing, group, operation, or collection. Current informal idiom Regional use: United States, later widespread.
Meaning & originHenpecked
Of a husband or male partner: continually nagged, bossed, or dominated at home, so that his own wishes count for little. Now dated and stereotyped…
Meaning & originNamby-pamby
Weak, childish and insipid; said of writing, policies, attitudes or people that seem sentimental, feeble or lacking backbone. Also used as a noun for…
Meaning & originKnuckle down
To settle down to serious, disciplined effort on a task, often after delay, distraction or half-hearted attempts. It implies a deliberate shift into…
Meaning & originLanguage has legends. Evidence matters.
Colourful story or documented history?
Phrase origins are full of irresistible myths. We separate what historical sources can show from what remains disputed, and link the references behind researched entries.