Phrase of the hour
Water off a duck's back
Used of criticism, insults, or warnings that have no effect on someone: they are shrugged off instantly and completely, leaving no trace. Usually said…
Uncover the storyA curious dictionary of everyday English
Discover what peculiar British and American expressions mean, where they came from, and how people actually use them.
Phrase of the hour
Used of criticism, insults, or warnings that have no effect on someone: they are shrugged off instantly and completely, leaving no trace. Usually said…
Uncover the storyStart with a letter
Pulled from the drawers
A low-effort meal eaten alone and assembled from whatever is on hand, typically a snack plate of things like bread, cheese, fruit, and pickles rather…
Meaning & originA true friend proves loyal by helping when you are in difficulty. Indeed is standard. The punning spelling in deed can emphasize help shown through…
Meaning & originUse power or force without regard for another person's rights, wishes, feelings or objections. It can also describe overriding rules, evidence or…
Meaning & originUS slang, pronounced CHOO-ghee, for a person or style that is unfashionable in a particular way: not merely dated but trying too hard, the opposite of…
Meaning & originTo cut off all retreat or ties, leaving no way back.
Meaning & originHeld secretly in reserve, ready to pull out.
Meaning & originTo try something out, giving it a spin.
Meaning & originHave a look or inspect something briefly. Informal. Spellings vary because the term was transliterated and transmitted orally. Regional use: British…
Meaning & originLanguage has legends. Evidence matters.
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.