Explore the origins, semantic nuances, and contemporary relevance of the phrase 'quantum leap,' a term denoting a sudden and significant advance, rooted in nuclear physics.
Explore the phrase 'quick on the draw/trigger,' its historical origins, semantic nuances, cultural usage, and contemporary relevance. Learn about its etymology and how it evolved from the American West to modern contexts.
Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'rabbit food,' often used to describe raw vegetables like lettuce. Discover its historical context and contemporary relevance.
Explore the phrase 'rain on someone’s parade'—its definition, etymology, cultural significance, and contemporary relevance. Discover how this vivid metaphor captures the essence of spoiling plans or celebrations.
Explore the origins, meaning, and cultural significance of the phrase 'raise Cain, to,' a 19th-century Americanism alluding to biblical narratives and its impact on language and culture.
Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'raise one’s hackles,' a metaphor for arousing anger, with historical and contemporary insights.
Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'raise the ante, to,' including its etymology, semantic nuances, and contemporary relevance.
Explore the phrase 'rake over the coals,' its definition, etymology, semantic nuances, and cultural usage. Discover its historical roots and contemporary relevance.
Explore the origins, meaning, and cultural significance of the phrase 'a rat race.' Delve into its etymology, semantic nuances, and contemporary relevance in society.
Explore the origins, semantic nuances, and cultural relevance of the phrase 'rats abandon a sinking ship,' a metaphor for disloyalty in failing ventures.
Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'on the razor's edge,' from its ancient roots to its contemporary usage in literature and society.
Explore the origins, historical context, and contemporary relevance of the phrase 'read the riot act, to.' Learn about its evolution from a literal legal requirement to a figurative expression of reprimand.
Explore the origins, historical context, and contemporary relevance of the phrase 'the real McCoy,' tracing its roots to 19th-century America and its enduring cultural significance.
Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'like a red flag/rag to a bull,' a simile denoting inflammatory or infuriating actions.
Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'ride for a fall, to,' including its usage in literature and contemporary contexts.
Explore the origins, historical context, and contemporary relevance of the phrase 'ride hell (bent) for leather,' a vivid expression of speed and determination.
Explore the origins, historical context, and contemporary usage of the phrase 'ride herd on, to,' including its semantic nuances and cultural significance.
The largest and most comprehensive resource of its kind, The Dictionary of Clichés features thousands of unique clichés, idioms, jargon, slang, euphemisms, and metaphors, alongside common expressions.