This
database is a comprehensive collection of all the American idioms and slang available.
American Idioms are many and varied. We hope you enjoy our collection. We are adding more all the time.
.
Blow off some steam
What does Blow off some steam mean? | To enjoy oneself by relaxing normal formalities. | He is a true workaholic who has misguided priorities, when he wants to blow off some steam he comes to work on Saturday wearing blue jeans.
Boilers are commonly used in steam heating systems and steam engines such as those used in a steam locomotive. The boilers contain water that is heated by burning some fuel such as oil. The heated water turns to steam, which is then sent through a system of radiators (in the case of heating systems) or harnessed by a steam engine.
The steam creates considerable pressure in the boiler. If the pressure becomes too great, there is a danger of the boiler exploding. Hence boilers are equipped with safety valves called blow off valves that open if the pressure becomes to great.
"Blowing off steam" prevents explosions by relieving the pressure in a boiler by venting excess steam and pressure. |
|
Some Random Idioms
| |
crispy critter
What does "crispy critter" mean? | burn victim, usually with second- or third-degree burns. | One crispy critter coming in from that apartment fire.
|
|
| |
wusup
What does "wusup" mean? | 1. Wusup, bro? |
|
pen is mightier than the sword
What does "pen is mightier than the sword" mean? | writing and ideas are more powerful than the use of force | The general believed that the pen is mightier than the sword and he tried to use words rather than force to overcome his enemies.
|
at death's door
What does "at death's door" mean? | to be near death |
The young woman was at death's door after the accident.
|
Both ends meet
What does "Both ends meet" mean? | If you make both ends meet, you live off the money you earn and don't go into debt. |
|
split the difference
What does "split the difference" mean? | to settle a money or other disagreement by dividing the difference | We had to pay extra money for the rental car so we decided to split the difference and each pay half.
|
as red as a cherry
What does "as red as a cherry" mean? | bright red |
The car was as red as a cherry after its new paint job.
|
keep up
What does "keep up" mean? | keep something at the same level or in good condition | He spends a lot of time trying to keep up the garden of his house.
|
|
| |
ball of wax
What does "ball of wax" mean? | whole situation; all factors, elements, or aspects of something |
|
chicken out (of something)
What does "chicken out (of something)" mean? | to stop doing something because of fear |
I chickened out of jumping into the lake from the high diving board.
|
All over bar the shouting
What does "All over bar the shouting" mean? | When something is all over bar the shouting, the outcome is absolutely certain.('All over but the shouting' is also used.) |
|
tool
What does "tool" mean? | serious, dedicated student |
|