Phrase of the hour
Like a bolt from the blue
A sudden, shocking surprise, out of nowhere.
Uncover the storyA curious dictionary of everyday English
Every odd phrase has
a story to tell.
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
Give the green light
To okay or let go, all clear.
Meaning & originWear and tear
Damage, deterioration or strain caused by ordinary, repeated use rather than by a single accident. Common in leases, warranties and insurance…
Meaning & originUnder false colours
While concealing one's true identity, allegiance or intentions behind a deceptive appearance. Colour is British spelling and color American. The…
Meaning & originGive someone the cold shoulder
Deliberately ignore someone or treat them with conspicuous unfriendliness or lack of interest.
Meaning & originCry over spilled milk
To waste time or emotion regretting something trivial or irreversible, lamenting a loss that can't be undone instead of moving on. It conjures a…
Meaning & originThe powers that be
The people or institutions currently holding authority, often viewed as remote or impersonal. Often mildly sceptical or humorous because the authority…
Meaning & originStrange bedfellows
An unlikely, surprising or uneasy pairing of people, groups or ideas, often created by necessity or shared interest. Often used in political…
Meaning & originA drop in the bucket
A tiny part of a big whole, barely a dent.
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.