U.S. Dictionary Blog

Idioms

Put Out a Fire: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

"Put out a fire" is a phrase that can be taken both literally and figuratively. Literally, it refers to extinguishing…
Idioms

Must Needs: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

The expression "must needs" is an archaic form, often encountered in older English texts, that emphasizes necessity or inevitability. It…
Idioms

Man Alive: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

"Man alive" is an exclamation used to express surprise, astonishment, or emphasis. The phrase can convey a range of emotions,…
Idioms

Play Me for a Fool: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

When someone uses the phrase "play me for a fool," they're feeling deceived or treated as if they are not…
Idioms

Look Cool: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

When we talk about someone trying to "look cool," we're often referring to their effort to appear calm, composed, and…
Idioms

How's Your Family?: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

When someone asks, "How's your family?" they're usually not just making small talk. This question can carry deeper meanings, depending…
Idioms

Combine With: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

When we talk about bringing different elements together to create something new or enhanced, we often use the idiom "combine…
Idioms

A Dream Come True: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Have you ever experienced something so wonderful that it felt like a fantasy turned into reality? That's the essence of…
Idioms

Valuing Someone For: Definition, Meaning and Origin

The phrase "valuing someone for" suggests acknowledging and appreciating a person's inherent qualities, abilities, or contributions. It implies looking beyond…
Idioms

The Prodigal Son: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

The idiom "the prodigal son" is a phrase deeply embedded in our language and culture. It typically refers to someone…
Idioms

Last For: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

"Last for" refers to the duration or length of time something continues or remains in a particular state or condition.…
Idioms

Work Against the Clock: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

"Work against the clock" means to be in a situation where you are rushing to complete a task within a…
Idioms

Gets the Best of Me: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

"Gets the best of me" refers to a situation where someone is overcome by a strong emotion or impulse, leading…
Idioms

Shut the Front Door!: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

"Shut the front door" is an expression of disbelief or amazement, often used in a playful or humorous manner. It's…
Idioms

Dressed to the Nines: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

"Dressed to the nines" means to be dressed very elegantly or flamboyantly, often for a special occasion. This phrase implies…
1 22 23 24 25 26 170
U.S Dictionary is the premier dictionary about the English language as used in the United States of America.
Copyright © 2025 - U.S. Dictionary
Privacy Policy
magnifier