Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'a tough row to hoe,' a metaphor for arduous tasks originating from 19th-century America.
Delve into the origins, meaning, and cultural significance of the phrase 'can of worms', a metaphor for complex problems or dilemmas. Learn about its historical context and contemporary relevance.
Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'come out of one's shell,' a metaphor for overcoming shyness and embracing social engagement.
Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'dead in the water,' a metaphor for failure, particularly in business contexts.
Explore the origins, historical context, and contemporary usage of the phrase 'draw a bead on (someone), to,' a metaphorical expression rooted in 19th-century American firearm terminology.
Explore the meaning, history, and cultural significance of the phrase 'drop a bombshell,' a metaphorical expression denoting the announcement of sensational news.
Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'elbow room,' a metaphor for having enough space, with historical roots dating back to the sixteenth century.
Discover the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'in the fast lane/track,' a metaphor for high-pressure, competitive lifestyles and rapid advancement.
Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'food for thought,' a metaphorical expression used to denote something worth pondering.
Explore the origins, meaning, and cultural significance of the phrase 'go over like a lead balloon,' a metaphor for failure. Discover its etymology and usage in contemporary language.
Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'Iron Hand in a Velvet Glove,' a metaphor for ruling with firmness concealed by gentleness.
Discover the origins, historical context, and contemporary relevance of the phrase 'ivory tower,' a metaphor for detachment from practical affairs, often associated with academia and the arts.
Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'keep one's head above water,' a metaphor for avoiding financial ruin or being overwhelmed.
Explore the meaning, history, and cultural significance of the phrase 'know which side of the bread is buttered on,' a metaphor for recognizing one's best interests.
Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'the land of milk and honey,' a metaphor for abundance and prosperity rooted in biblical scripture.
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.