A 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 moment
Deliberately ostracise someone by refusing to speak to or acknowledge them. Describes organised or collective silent treatment, not merely sending someone away. Regional use: British English.
Uncover the storyStart with a letter
Pulled from the drawers
An obstacle that prevents progress or makes success difficult. Neutral and common in formal as well as everyday writing.…
Meaning & originA person or thing that is extremely difficult, or practically impossible, to find because it is hidden within a much larger…
Meaning & originA dismissive command to go away, get out of sight and leave the speaker alone. Dated euphemistic dismissal, roughly 'go away'…
Meaning & originPeople with similar interests, habits or character tend to associate with one another. Often shortened to birds of a feather.…
Meaning & originShowy, boastful, or impressive in appearance but lacking the experience, substance, wealth, or ability being advertised.…
Meaning & originRescued at the last possible moment from defeat, danger, embarrassment, an unwanted answer, or another difficult situation.…
Meaning & originTo fend off poverty or harm, just scraping by.
Meaning & originTotally exhausted or drained.
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.