Phrase of the hour
Ignorance is bliss
Not knowing something troubling can be a happier state than facing harsh truth, suggesting innocence shields from pain.
Uncover the storyA curious dictionary of everyday English
Every odd phrase has
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Discover what peculiar British and American expressions mean, where they came from, and how people actually use them.
725
curious expressions
409
source-backed entries
855
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
The root of the matter
The fundamental cause, essential issue or deepest part of a problem. Often overlaps with heart of the matter, though root more strongly suggests an…
Meaning & originUp to your ears
Buried deep in something, swamped.
Meaning & originNone of your beeswax
None of your concern or business. Informal, playful, and mildly dismissive Regional use: United States, later wider English.
Meaning & originGet a leg up
To gain an advantage or boost, stepping ahead.
Meaning & originHigh on the hog
In an affluent or luxurious manner, with access to expensive comforts. Informal and chiefly American.
Meaning & originCaught in the crosshairs
Trapped in a tight spot or aim, pinned.
Meaning & originFlat as a pancake
Completely level or dull, no rise at all.
Meaning & originTake the wind out of your sails
To deflate someone's confidence or momentum, draining their drive.
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.