A-Z Database
This British colloquial expression from the mid-20th century means getting needlessly flustered or concerned about something as in; don’t get your kni...
see Don’t bring a knife to a gunfight
This is of course a metaphor for someone who comes to the aid of another in a chivalrous or gallant manner. The first known citation is in a poem by H...
This expression has been around since the 1660s when it was used to describe a highwayman. From the early 20th century, it has been used as a euphemis...
If the knives are out for someone, it means that person faces hostility or harm to reputation, standing etc. Obviously, the knives here are metaphoric...
Slang for penis since the late 19th century from the similarity of the un-erect penis to a doorknocker or doorknob. See also Bonk.
see With bells/knobs on
To knock meaning the act of copulation dates from at least the 16th century, whereas to knock meaning to deprecate or find fault with is American from...
In the sense of wandering or loitering around in an aimless or carefree manner, dates from the late 19th century.
Knock down ginger is the name of a children’s street game dating from the early 19th century where children knock on doors and then run away before th...
see Cocked hat
see Lick into shape
Meaning to desist or refrain from doing or saying something is an American idiom from the late 19th century.
To knock off work i.e. to stop working, dates from the mid-1600s. To knock something off can mean to do something hastily and without precision, and d...
see Touch/Touching wood