Phrase of the hour
Not worth the paper it's written on
So low in value that it is effectively worthless.
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.
1,655
curious expressions
1,339
source-backed entries
2,736
research references
Plain-English meanings.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Start with a letter
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A few curious finds
Cause célèbre
A legal case or controversy that arouses intense and lasting public interest; by extension, any notorious person, event or thing. English began with…
Meaning & originSink or swim
To be left to succeed by one's own efforts or to fail with no help, rescue, or training on offer. It describes harsh make-or-break situations and…
Meaning & originBigger than Dallas
Enormous, spectacular, conspicuous, or so obvious that it should be impossible to overlook. Strongly regional and hyperbolic. Outside Texas it may…
Meaning & originEcho chamber
An environment, especially in media or social media, where people encounter only opinions and information that repeat and reinforce what they already…
Meaning & originThe pen is mightier than the sword
Writing, ideas, and persuasion ultimately accomplish more than violence or force. Invoked to praise authors, journalists, lawyers, and diplomats, or…
Meaning & originThick as thieves
Very close friends who share confidences and keep company constantly; intimate to the point of exclusivity, sometimes with a hint of conspiracy…
Meaning & originCharity begins at home
One's first responsibility is to care for people and needs close at hand, especially family. Can defend reasonable local responsibility or excuse…
Meaning & originA nine days' wonder
A person, event, or sensation that attracts intense public excitement for a very short time and is then forgotten. The phrase now sounds dated or…
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.