Phrase of the hour
In the twinkling of an eye
In an extremely short time, emphasizing that a change or action happened almost instantly. Literary but readily understood. In a modern neutral…
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
In the driver's seat
In charge or control.
Meaning & originGood riddance
An expression of relief or satisfaction that an unwanted person or thing has gone. Blunt and often insulting when directed at a person. The extended…
Meaning & originPut the comether on
Charm, coax or cajole someone, sometimes in order to deceive them. Regional and dated. The phrase can imply either attractive persuasion or dishonest…
Meaning & originOn the Q.T.
Done quiet or secret, hush-hush.
Meaning & originQueen Anne is dead
A sarcastic response meaning that the supposed news is stale, obvious or universally known. A sarcastic rejoinder. It can sound needlessly sharp when…
Meaning & originNeck and crop
Completely and often with abrupt or forceful dispatch, especially when someone is thrown out or falls headlong. Dated and chiefly British. It most…
Meaning & originGive as good as you get
To match blow for blow, holding your own.
Meaning & originTalk turkey
Speak frankly and directly, especially when discussing practical terms, serious business, or a negotiation.
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.