A 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.

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In hot water

In trouble or a difficult situation, often due to one's own actions, facing consequences with a sense of being scalded or trapped. It evokes…

Meaning & origin

Curry favour

Seek someone's approval or an advantage through calculated flattery or ingratiating behaviour. Usually disapproving. American English spells the noun…

Meaning & origin

Up the duff

Pregnant. This British and Australian slang expression is informal and can sound coarse, dismissive, or offensive depending on the speaker and…

Meaning & origin

Hunky-dory

Fine, satisfactory, or proceeding without trouble. Current, light-hearted, and slightly old-fashioned Regional use: United States.

Meaning & origin

Language 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.

How we research phrases