Idiom Origins - Idioms

This expression means to admit total ignorance, to have no idea at all, and dates from the late 19th/early 20th century. It derives from the notion of...

Have one's tail between one's legs

To be down-hearted or to be in bad spirits, the opposite of to have one's tail up, derives from the observation of dogs who convey their emotions via...

Have one’s back to the wall

see Backs to the wall

Have one’s chips

see Chips

Have one’s hand in the cookie jar

see Cookie jar

Have one’s head screwed on the right way

see Have a screw loose

Have one’s heart in one’s mouth

see Heart in one’s mouth