A-Z Database
This expression dates from the 18th century and means to disclose secret or confidential information, often by mistake. The origin remains unresolved...
see Chips, let them fall where they may
This British idiom means to make way and give someone an opportunity or opening. It dates from the 1930s. Some sources say it derives from hunting wit...
This expression is often used in a modern context as an appeal for illumination, both figuratively and literally, for example after a power cut. Its o...
To do one’s level best is to do the best that one can do. The expression is of American origin and dates from the mid-19th century. Why level? There a...
Is a British expression for a neck-and-neck race or contest; it dates from the early 19th century and derives from the game of crib or cribbage where...
This is the name of the roofed gateway to a churchyard, especially a churchyard with a graveyard attached. The word lichgate dates from The Middle Age...
A lick and a promise is a British colloquialism for a cursory, superficial and half-hearted effort and dates from the mid-19th century. It derives fro...
see Kiss someone’s arse/ass
More often than not, this expression is misused to mean to whip or knock into shape, which is not the original meaning at all. Lick into shape derives...
To lick one’s chops is to display hunger or, when used figuratively, means to anticipate something or other with relish, both usages date from the mid...
To lick one’s lips is to anticipate something with relish. In the literal sense, it derives from anticipating a tasty morsel of food and figuratively...
Dogs, cats, rodents and primates all lick their wounds because saliva, when used sparingly, has bactericidal properties. The concept is extremely anci...
see Kiss someone’s arse/ass
see Bite the dust