Phrase of the hour
A labour of love
Work undertaken chiefly from affection, commitment or enjoyment rather than for reward. Labour is British spelling and labor American. The work can be…
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Plain-English meanings.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Start with a letter
Browse the cabinet
Pulled from the drawers
A few curious finds
Fit as a butcher's dog
In top shape or health, sturdy and spry.
Meaning & originTalk turkey
Speak frankly and directly, especially when discussing practical terms, serious business, or a negotiation.
Meaning & originFine words butter no parsnips
Polite promises and flattering talk achieve nothing without practical action. Often used to demand evidence, money or action after reassuring talk…
Meaning & originA drop in the bucket
A tiny part of a big whole, barely a dent.
Meaning & originIgnorance is bliss
Not knowing something troubling can be a happier state than facing harsh truth, suggesting innocence shields from pain.
Meaning & originX-ray vision
Seeing through obstacles or facades with uncanny clarity.
Meaning & originFoul play
Dishonest, treacherous or criminal conduct; sometimes violence suspected in a death or disappearance. In police reporting it often implies possible…
Meaning & originDine with Duke Humphrey
Go without dinner, especially while pretending or hoping to dine. Archaic. It refers to missing a meal, not to eating grandly with a nobleman…
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.