Long in The Tooth Meaning To be getting old. Example Daddy needs a new Porsche. The old one is getting a bit long in the tooth. Origin Strange as …
Lock Stock and Barrel Meaning The whole thing, complete. Example I want to buy the house and the furniture, lock stock and barrel. Origin This phrase refers to the …
Load of Cobblers Meaning Something is rubbish or nonsense. Origin The origin is in rhyming slang for cobbler’s awl. An awl is a pointed tool for making holes in …
Lo and Behold Meaning To call attention to a surprising truth. Example I was in disbelief when I heard about Terry’s new car. But he opened the garage and …
Lie Low Meaning Keep out of sight; bide one’s time. Origin There are many citations of variants of this little phrase dating back to the 13th century. Shakespeare used …
Lickety-Split Meaning Headlong; at full speed. Origin This is an American phrase in origin, possibly with Scottish influences, and isn’t commonly used in other countries. Lickety may be taken …
Lick into Shape Meaning To transform a failing object or venture into something that works effectively. Origin This phrase derives from the belief that bear cubs are born shapeless …
Let Your Hair Down Meaning To behave in a free or uninhibited manner, give free expression to one’s private views, to relax and drop one’s reserve or inhibitions after …
Let Them Eat Cake Meaning Those in a disadvantaged position should eat the worst of the food. Example Marie Antoinette told the Paris proletariat that they should eat cake …
Let The Cat out of The Bag Meaning To reveal a secret. Example Don’t let the cat out of the bag about Karla’s birthday present. Origin At medieval markets, …