Have a screw loose

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Meaning

A bit off or nuts, not right.

Origin

From 19th-century Britain, tied to machines; 'screw loose' for off, slang by 1810s in a tale for odd. A 1830s 'Punch' uses it for a nut.

Variants

  • Screw loose

Usage Examples

  • He's got a screw loose; acts odd.
  • Have a screw loose; bit nuts.
  • Screw loose; off his head.

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