Like a deer in the headlights
Suggest a CorrectionMeaning
Frozen stiff or shocked.
Origin
From 20th-century America, tied to cars; deer freeze in lights, slang by 1950s in a tale for stun. A 1960s 'Time' uses it for a shock.
Usage Examples
- He's like a deer in the headlights; froze up!
- Like a deer in the headlights; shocked still.
- Deer in lights; dazed look.
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