Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'up in arms,' tracing its evolution from a literal expression of rebellion to a figurative representation of anger.
Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'up to one’s ears/eyes/eyebrows, to be,' commonly used to describe being completely engrossed or overwhelmed.
Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'up to the hilt.' Delve into its etymology, semantic nuances, and contemporary relevance.
Explore the origins, meaning, and contemporary relevance of the phrase 'walk on eggs, to.' Delve into its etymology, semantic nuances, and cultural significance.
Explore the origins, historical context, and cultural significance of the phrase 'walking wounded,' a term with roots in military contexts that has evolved into broader figurative usage.
Explore the meaning, origins, and cultural significance of the phrase 'warm the cockles of one's heart,' a term that conveys a sense of deep emotional gratification.
Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'water over the dam,' a metaphor for past events that are irreversible. Learn about its usage and relevance in contemporary language.
Explore the origins, semantic nuances, and cultural significance of the phrase 'way to go,' an expression of encouragement and approval with roots in sports.
Explore the origins and cultural significance of the phrase 'whipping boy,' a term denoting a scapegoat who bears punishment for another's misdeeds. Delve into its historical context and contemporary relevance.
Explore the origins, meaning, and cultural significance of the phrase 'whole hog' or 'to go the whole hog,' a cliché signifying complete or thorough action.
Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'with friends like that, who needs enemies,' along with its etymological roots and contemporary relevance.
Discover the origins, semantic nuances, and cultural significance of the American slang phrase 'with it, to be/to get.' Explore its historical context, contemporary relevance, and literary examples.
Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'work cut out for one.' Discover its historical roots and contemporary relevance.
Delve into the origins, semantic nuances, and cultural relevance of the phrase 'the worm turns,' a proverb signifying a reversal of fortune or the empowerment of the downtrodden.
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.