Phrase of the hour
Hold water
To stand up or hold true, solid as fact.
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
To stand up or hold true, solid as fact.
Uncover the storyStart with a letter
Pulled from the drawers
To stir deep feelings of tenderness, pity, or compassion. Said of stories, images, music, or appeals that move people strongly and make them respond…
Meaning & originIn top health or shape, glowing with vigor.
Meaning & originA successful outcome can make earlier difficulties seem acceptable or unimportant. Often expresses relief, but it can minimise real harm; speakers…
Meaning & originExcessive bureaucratic procedure and paperwork that delays action, especially adherence to official rules even when they serve no purpose. Usually…
Meaning & originThe entire thing, group, operation, or collection. Current informal idiom Regional use: United States, later widespread.
Meaning & originOf a husband or male partner: continually nagged, bossed, or dominated at home, so that his own wishes count for little. Now dated and stereotyped…
Meaning & originWeak, childish and insipid; said of writing, policies, attitudes or people that seem sentimental, feeble or lacking backbone. Also used as a noun for…
Meaning & originTo settle down to serious, disciplined effort on a task, often after delay, distraction or half-hearted attempts. It implies a deliberate shift into…
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.