Phrase of the moment
You can't polish a turd
Some things can't be fixed or prettied up, flaws stay.
Uncover the storyA curious dictionary of everyday English
Every odd phrase has
a story to tell.
Discover what peculiar British and American expressions mean, where they came from, and how people actually use them.
721
curious expressions
405
source-backed entries
847
research references
Plain-English meanings.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Start with a letter
Browse the cabinet
Pulled from the drawers
A few curious finds
Smart aleck
Someone irritatingly smug about being clever or knowledgeable. Current informal and mildly insulting Regional use: United…
Meaning & originOn the ropes
In a tight spot or near defeat, reeling.
Meaning & originThe bitter end
The final limit or conclusion, especially when reaching it is difficult or unpleasant. Commonly implies persistence through…
Meaning & originTopsy-turvy
Upside down, inverted or in a state of thorough confusion where the normal order has been disrupted. May describe literal…
Meaning & originFine words butter no parsnips
Polite promises and flattering talk achieve nothing without practical action. Often used to demand evidence, money or action…
Meaning & originStrange bedfellows
An unlikely, surprising or uneasy pairing of people, groups or ideas, often created by necessity or shared interest. Often…
Meaning & originFall off the wagon
To relapse into a bad habit, usually drinking, after quitting.
Meaning & originPut your best foot forward
To lead with your strongest effort, shining.
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.