Phrase of the hour
Cry wolf
To raise false alarms, calling danger too often.
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 raise false alarms, calling danger too often.
Uncover the storyStart with a letter
Pulled from the drawers
Feel unusually lively, confident, frisky, or self-important. Current but somewhat folksy Regional use: United States, later wider North American…
Meaning & originChildren are expected to remain quiet and not interrupt adults. Now usually quoted critically, humorously, or as an example of authoritarian and…
Meaning & originA sudden feeling of disgust or repulsion toward someone you are dating or attracted to, usually triggered by something trivial such as the way they…
Meaning & originSaid to express or encourage the belief that a third attempt will succeed where the first two failed - sometimes as genuine confidence, sometimes as a…
Meaning & originCertain to succeed, gain entry, or be favourably placed. Dated but familiar Regional use: United States, especially West Coast and wartime service…
Meaning & originMake a derisive gesture, or openly show contempt for a person or rule. Informal and defiant. The literal gesture is also known as thumbing one's nose…
Meaning & originEat a large amount, or eat in a way the speaker considers greedy, hurried, or messy. Informal and disapproving when aimed at someone else. It may…
Meaning & originHonest and open in dealings, with nothing hidden or shady.
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.