Phrase of the hour
Out to lunch
Oblivious, inattentive, irrational, or detached from what is happening. Current informal expression; can sound insulting when applied to a person…
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Plain-English meanings.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Folklore labelled honestly.
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A stab in the back
An act of betrayal by someone trusted, such as a friend, ally, or colleague; a treacherous deed carried out from a position of confidence rather than…
Meaning & originCome rain or shine
Whatever happens, regardless of circumstances or adversity. It began as a pledge that an event or duty would hold in any weather, and the figurative…
Meaning & originIt takes two to tango
Used to say that certain situations, especially quarrels and shared undertakings, require two willing participants, so responsibility or blame cannot…
Meaning & originFlat broke
Completely penniless; having no money at all. Informal, with 'flat' intensifying 'broke' in the sense 'utterly, completely'. Usually describes a…
Meaning & originThe lion's share
The largest portion of something, a clear majority of a total rather than necessarily all of it. Often carries a hint that the division is…
Meaning & originIt's an ill wind that blows nobody any good
However damaging an event is, it will almost always bring someone a benefit; often said wryly by or about a person who profits from another's…
Meaning & originThe sun is over the yardarm
A jocular way of declaring that it is late enough in the day for an alcoholic drink to be socially acceptable. The yardarm is the outer end of the…
Meaning & originIn the lap of luxury
Living in grand comfort or wealth, pampered.
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.