Phrase of the hour
Ja well no fine
A formula expressing resigned acceptance, hesitation or noncommittal acknowledgement: roughly, well then, that's how it is. Very informal and often…
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Plain-English meanings.
Folklore labelled honestly.
Folklore labelled honestly.
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Cut of your jib
Your characteristic appearance, manner or style, especially as the basis of a first impression. Informal and nautical in flavour. It can signal…
Meaning & originZapped out
Totally exhausted or drained.
Meaning & originLaugh like a drain
Laugh very loudly, freely and often unattractively. Informal. It emphasizes volume and abandon rather than elegance. Regional use: Chiefly British and…
Meaning & originWhere there's muck there's brass
Dirty, unpleasant or unglamorous work can produce worthwhile profit or prosperity. Informal and often approving of practical enterprise, though it can…
Meaning & originBatten down the hatches
To prepare thoroughly for trouble or danger, securing everything tight.
Meaning & originGive someone the runaround
To dodge or mislead with vague excuses, sending them in circles.
Meaning & originBarking mad
Completely irrational, wildly unreasonable, or apparently out of touch with reality. A strong informal expression. It is less harmful when aimed at a…
Meaning & originFit as a butcher's dog
In top shape or health, sturdy and spry.
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.