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.
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keep down (something)
What does keep down (something) mean? | keep from progressing or growing, keep within limits, control | The students were told to keep down the noise as some of the other classes were having exams.
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Some Random Idioms
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get off (easy/lightly)
What does "get off (easy/lightly)" mean? | receive very little or no punishment for something | The young man got off easy and did not have to go to jail for his crime.
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rooted to the spot
What does "rooted to the spot" mean? | to be unable to move because of fear or surprise | The boy was rooted to the spot as he watched the dog attack the rabbit.
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at risk
What does "at risk" mean? | in danger |
The children were at risk of getting sick when the disease spread in the school.
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In the crapper
What does "In the crapper" mean? | In the toilet, soiled; or hopelessly irretrievable. | Your relationship with Mary went right in the crapper the minute you told her to, "Rub that pie on her hips because that is where it's going to end up anyway".
Thomas Crapper of England is credited for the design and implementation of modern indoor plumbing (including the flushable toilet). Although there is conciderable evidence to the contrary, restrooms/bathrooms are still often referred to as "The Crapper." This word (among others) was introduced to America by their World War I soldiers returning home from Europe.
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High-wire act
What does "High-wire act" mean? | A high-wire act is a dangerous or risky strategy, plan, task, etc. |
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look down one`s nose at (someone)
What does "look down one`s nose at (someone)" mean? | to look at someone with contempt or dislike, to feel that you are better than someone else | The girl looks down her nose at people who she thinks are not as smart as she is.
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pardon me for breathing
What does "pardon me for breathing" mean? |
idiom. no; no way (a strong, sarcastic rebuke) |
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Tread the boards
What does "Tread the boards" mean? | When someone treads the boards, they perform on stage in a theatre. |
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