Take the gilt off the gingerbread
Suggest a CorrectionMeaning
To strip the shine or fun, dull it.
Origin
From 19th-century Britain, tied to fairs; gilt gingerbread for flash, slang by 1870s in a tale for fade. A 1880s 'Punch' uses it for a dull.
Usage Examples
- That took the gilt off the gingerbread; less fun.
- Take the gilt off it, and the shine is gone.
- Gilt off; dull now.
Browse More