Find on Learn English:
Search results for: "noun"
Search context: Content, categorized as "noun"
backhanded compliment
[backhanded compliment] {n. phr.} A remark that sounds like a compliment […]
backseat driver
[backseat driver] {n.}, {informal} A bossy person in a car who […]
bad actor
[bad actor] {n.}, {informal} A person or animal that is always […]
bad blood
[bad blood] {n.}, {informal} Anger or misgivings due to bad relations […]
bad egg
[bad egg] {n.}, {slang} A ne'er-do-well; good-for nothing; a habitual offender. […]
bad news
[bad news] {n.}, {slang} An event, thing, or person which is […]
bad paper
[bad paper] {n.}, {slang} 1. A check for which there are […]
bad shit
[bad shit] {n.}, {vulgar}, {avoidable} An unpleasant event or situation, such […]
bad trip
[bad trip] {n.}, {slang}, {also used colloquially} A disturbing or frightening […]
baker's dozen
[baker's dozen] {n.}, {informal} Thirteen. * /"How many of the jelly […]
ball game
[ball game] {n.}, {slang}, also {informal} The entire matter at hand; […]
ball of fire
[ball of fire] {n.}, {informal} A person with great energy and […]
balls up
[balls up] {n.} A bungled or messed up situation. (WWI Service […]
baloney
[baloney] {n.}, {informal} Nonsense, unbelievable, trite, or trivial. * /John brags […]
banana oil
[banana oil] {n.}, {slang} Flattery that is an obvious exaggeration; statements […]
barney
[barney] {n.} a noisy quarrel or fight. Sometimes claimed to be […]
base on balls
[base on balls] {n.} First base given to a baseball batter […]
basket case
[basket case] {n.}, {slang}, {also informal} 1. A person who has […]
bats in one's belfry
[bats in one's belfry] or [bats in the belfry] {n. phr.}, […]
batting average
[batting average] {n. phr.} Degree of accomplishment (originally used as a […]
battle of nerves
[battle of nerves] {n. phr.} A contest of wills during which […]
be-in
[be-in] {n.}, {slang}, {hippie culture} A gathering or social occasion with […]
beach bunny
[beach bunny] {n.}, {slang} An attractive girl seen on beaches - […]
bear in the air
[bear in the air] or [bear in the sky] {n. phr.}, […]
bear trap
[bear trap] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} A police radar […]
beaten path
[beaten path] {n. phr.} The usual route or way of operating […]
beaten track
[beaten track] {n.}
See: [BEATEN PATH].
beauty sleep
[beauty sleep] {n.} A nap or rest taken to improve the […]
beaver
[beaver] {n.}, {slang}, {vulgar}, {avoidable}, {citizen's band radio jargon} A female, […]
bed of nails
[bed of nails] {n. phr.} A difficult or unhappy situation or […]
bed of roses
[bed of roses] or [bowl of cherries] {n. phr.} A pleasant […]
bed of thorns
[bed of thorns] {n. phr.} A thoroughly unhappy time or difficult […]
bee in one's bonnet
[bee in one's bonnet] {n. phr.}, {informal} A fixed idea that […]
berk
[berk] {n.} (also spelled burk) idiot, stupid person (from Berkeley Hunt, […]
best bib and tucker
[best bib and tucker] or [Sunday best] or [Sunday go-to-meeting clothes] […]
best man
[best man] {n.} The groom's aid (usually his best friend or […]
best seller
[best seller] {n.} An item (primarily said of books) that outsells […]
better half
[better half] {n.}, {informal} One's marriage partner (mostly said by men […]
big cheese
[big cheese] or [big gun] or [big shot] or [big wheel] […]
big daddy
[big daddy] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} The most important, largest thing, person […]
big frog in a small pond
[big frog in a small pond] {n. phr.}, {informal} An important […]
big hand
[big hand] {n.} Loud and enthusiastic applause. * /When Pavarotti finished […]
big head
[big head] {n.}, {informal} Too high an opinion of your own […]
big house
[big house] {n.} A large jail or prison. * /The rapist […]
big lie, the
[big lie, the] {n.}, {informal} A major, deliberate misrepresentation of some […]
big shot
[big shot] or [big wig] {n.} An important or influential person. […]
big stink
[big stink] {n.}, {slang} A major scandal; a big upheaval. * […]
big time
[big time] {n.}, {informal} 1. A very enjoyable time at a […]
big top
[big top] {n.} The main tent under which a circus gives […]
big wheel
[big wheel] {n.}, {informal} An influential or important person who has […]
big yawn
[big yawn] {n.} A very boring person, story or event. * […]
bingo card
[bingo card] {n.}, {slang} A response card, bound into a periodical, […]
bird
[bird] {n.} 1. Girl, woman. 2. Jail time (From the rhyming […]
bird of a different feather
[bird of a different feather] {n. phr.} A person who is […]
bird watcher
[bird watcher] {n.} A person whose hobby is to study birds […]
birds and the bees (the)
[birds and the bees (the)] {n. phr.}, {informal} The facts we […]
Birmingham screwdriver
[Birmingham screwdriver] {n.}
A hammer.
birthday suit
[birthday suit] {n.} The skin with no clothes on; complete nakedness. […]
bitter pill
[bitter pill] {n.} Something hard to accept; disappointment. * /Jack was […]
bizzie
[bizzie] {n.}
Policeman (Scouse).
black and white
[black and white] {n. phr.} 1. Print or writing; words on […]
black day
[black day] {n.} A day of great unhappiness; a disaster. * […]
black eye
[black eye] {n.} 1. A dark area around one's eye due […]
black sheep
[black sheep] {n.} A person in a family or a community […]
blackout
[blackout] {n.} 1. The darkening of a city curing an air […]
blag
[blag] {n.} {v.} as a noun, a robbery or as a […]
blah
[blah] {n.}
(or blah blah) worthless, boring or silly talk.
blank check
[blank check] {n.} 1. A bank check written to a person […]
Blighty
[Blighty] {n.} (or Old Blighty) Britain, home. Used especially by British […]
blind alley
[blind alley] {n.} 1. A narrow street that has only one […]
blind date
[blind date] {n.} An engagement or date arranged by friends for […]
blind spot
[blind spot] {n.} 1. A place on the road that a […]
blockhead
[blockhead] {n.}, {informal} An unusually dense, or stupid person whose head […]
bloke
[bloke] {n.} any man or sometimes a man in authority such […]
blood and thunder
[blood and thunder] {n. phr.} The violence and bloodshed of stories […]
blowout
[blowout] {n.} 1. An explosion of a tire or a fuse. […]
blue
[blue] {n.}
1. Policeman.
2. a tory.
blue collar worker
[blue collar worker] {n. phr.} A manual laborer who is probably […]
blue Monday
[blue Monday] {n.} A Monday when you have to work after […]
bobby
[bobby] {n.}
Policeman. After Robert Peel (Home Secretary in 1828).
bobby-soxer
[bobby-soxer] {n.} A teen-aged girl. (1940s idiom) * /My two daughters, […]
bod
[bod] {n.}
A male person. Short for body.
body blow
[body blow] {n.}, {informal} A great disappointment; a bitter failure. * […]
body English
[body English] {n.}, {informal} The wishful attempt to make a ball […]
bog
[bog] {n.}
Toilet
bogroll
[bogroll] {n.}
Toilet paper.
Bogtrotter
[Bogtrotter] {n.}
Derogatory term for an Irishman particularly an Irish peasant.
boiling point
[boiling point] {n.} 1. The temperature at which a liquid boils. […]
bollocking
[bollocking] {n.}
A severe telling off.
bolt from the blue
[bolt from the blue] {n. phr.} Something sudden and unexpected; an […]
bomb
[bomb] {n.} A large sum of money as in 'to make […]
bonce
[bonce] {n.} Head, crown of the head. Also a large playing […]
bone of contention
[bone of contention] {n. phr.} Something to fight over; a reason […]
bone to pick
[bone to pick] or [crow to pick] {n. phr.}, {informal} A […]
bonehead
[bonehead] {n.}, {slang} An unusually dense or stupid person. * /John […]
boot hill
[boot hill] {n.} A cemetery in the old Wild West where […]
booze
[booze] {n.} {v.} As a noun, an alcoholic drink; as a […]
boozer
[boozer] {n.} 1. a pub or bar. 2. Someone who drinks […]
bosom friend
[bosom friend] {n. phr.} A very close friend; an old buddy […]
bottle
[bottle] {n.} {v.} 1. nerve, courage. 2. Money collected by buskers […]
bottle blond
[bottle blond] {n.}, {slang} A person who is obviously not a […]
bottleneck
[bottleneck] {n.} A heavy traffic congestion. * /In Chicago the worst […]
bottom dollar
[bottom dollar] {n.}, {v. phr.}, {informal} One's last penny, one's last […]
bottom line
[bottom line] {n.}, {informal} (stress on "line") 1. The last word […]
bounce
[bounce] {v.} {n.} 1. To con someone into believing or doing […]
bouncer
[bouncer] {n.}
Someone employed to eject troublemakers or drunks.
bovver boots
[bovver boots] {n.} Heavy boots, sometimes with a steel toecap, worn […]
bovver boy
[bovver boy] {n.} A youth who deliberately causes or seeks out […]
box office
[box office] {n.}, {informal} 1. The place at movies and theaters […]
boyfriend
[boyfriend] {n.}, {informal} 1. A male friend or companion. * /"John […]
brain bucket
[brain bucket] {n.}, {slang} A motorcycle helmet. * /If you want […]
brain drain
[brain drain] {n.}, {informal} 1. The loss of the leading intellectuals […]
brain trust
[brain trust] {n.} A group of specially trained, highly intelligent experts […]
brainstorm
[brainstorm] {n.} A sudden insight; a stroke of comprehension. * /Listen […]
brass
[brass] {n.}
1. Money.
2. Cheek, nerve.
3. a prostitute.
brass hat
[brass hat] {n.}, {slang} 1. A high officer in the army, […]
bread and butter
[bread and butter] (1) {n. phr.} The usual needs of life; […]
bread-and-butter letter
[bread-and-butter letter] {n.} A written acknowledgment of hospitality received. * /Jane […]
break-even
[break-even] {n.} The point of equilibrium in a business venture when […]
break-in
[break-in] {n.} (stress on "break") A robbery; a burglary. * /We […]
break-up
[break-up] {n.} The end of a relationship, personal or commercial. * […]
breakthrough
[breakthrough] {n.} A point of sudden success after a long process […]
bringdown
[bringdown] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. (from "bring down", past "brought down"). […]
Bristols
[Bristols] {n.} The female breasts (Cockney rhyming slang, from Bristol bits […]
Bronx cheer
[Bronx cheer] {n. phr.}, {slang} A loud sound made with tongue […]
brown paper bag
[brown paper bag] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} An unmarked […]
brown study
[brown study] {n. phr.} A time of deep thought about something; […]
brown-bagger
[brown-bagger] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A person who does not go to […]
brown-tongue
[brown-tongue] {n.} Sycophant, toady or someone who attempts to curry favour […]
bubble gum music
[bubble gum music] {n.}, {slang} The kind of rock'n'roll that appeals […]
bubble trouble
[bubble trouble] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} Tire trouble, flat […]
bucket of bolts
[bucket of bolts] {n.}, {slang} A very old and shaky car […]
bug in one's ear
[bug in one's ear] {n. phr.}, {informal} A hint; secret information […]
bugger
[bugger] {n.} anal sex but in slang terms can be used […]
bugger all
[bugger all] {n.}
nothing.
buggy-whip
[buggy-whip] {n.}, {slang} An unusually long, thin radio antenna on a […]
bughouse
[bughouse] (1) {n.}, {slang} An insane asylum. * /They took Joe […]
bull in a china shop
[bull in a china shop] {n. phr.} A rough or clumsy […]
bull session
[bull session] {n.}, {slang} A long informal talk about something by […]
bullet lane
[bullet lane] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} The passing lane. […]
bullshit
[bullshit] {n.}, {vulgar, but gaining in acceptance by some} Exaggerated or […]
bullshit artist
[bullshit artist] {n.}, {slang}, {vulgar, but gaining in social acceptance} A […]
bum
[bum] {n.} buttocks, anus or both. Not particularly rude. 'Builders' bum' […]
bum steer
[bum steer] {n.} Wrong or misleading directions given naively or on […]
bumf
[bumf] {n.} derogatory reference to official memos or paperwork. Shortened from […]
bumfreezer
[bumfreezer] {n.}
any short jacket but in particular an Eton Jacket.
bums rush
[bum's rush] {n. phr.}, {slang} Throwing or pushing someone out from […]
bumsucker
[bumsucker] {n.} a toady, creep or someone acting in an obsequious […]
bundle of laughs
[bundle of laughs] {n. phr.} A very amusing person, thing, or […]
burn-out
[burn-out] {n.} A point of physical or emotional exhaustion. * /There […]
busy work
[busy work] {n.} Work that is done not to do or […]
butterflies in one's stomach
[butterflies in one's stomach] {n. phr.} A queer feeling in the […]
buzz word
[buzz word] {n.} A word that sounds big and important in […]
C.E.O.
[C.E.O.] {n.} Abbreviation of "Chief Executive Officer." The head of a […]
C.O.D.
[C.O.D.] {n. phr.} Abbreviation of "cash on delivery." * /If you […]
cabbage
[cabbage] {n.} 1. A stupid person or someone with no mental […]
calculated risk
[calculated risk] {n.} An action that may fail but is judged […]
call girl
[call girl] {n.}, {slang} A prostitute catering to wealthy clientele, especially […]
calling down
[calling down] also [dressing down] {n. phr.}, {informal} A scolding; reprimand. […]
camp follower
[camp follower] {n.} 1. A man or woman who goes with […]
can of worms
[can of worms] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. A complex problem, or […]
cancer stick
[cancer stick] {n.}, {slang} A cigarette. * /Throw away that cancer […]
canned heat
[canned heat] {n.} Chemicals in a can which burn with a […]
canned laughter
[canned laughter] {n.}, {informal} The sounds of laughter heard on certain […]
canned music
[canned music] {n.} Recorded music, as opposed to music played live. […]
car pool
[car pool] {n.} A group of people who own cars and […]
card up one's sleeve
[card up one's sleeve] {n. phr.}, {informal} Another help, plan, or […]
carriage trade
[carriage trade] {n.}, {literary} Rich or upper class people. * /The […]
carrot and stick
[carrot and stick] {n. phr.} The promise of reward and threat […]
carry weight
[carry weight] {n.} To be influential; have significance and/or clout; impress. […]
carrying charge
[carrying charge] {n.} An extra cost added to the price of […]
cart before the horse (to put)
[cart before the horse] (to put) {n. phr.}, {informal} Things in […]
case in point
[case in point] {n. phr.} An example that proves something or […]
cash crop
[cash crop] {n.} A crop grown to be sold. * /Cotton […]
cash on the barrelhead
[cash on the barrelhead] {n. phr.}, {informal} Money paid at once; […]
cast pearls before swine
[cast pearls before swine] or [cast one's pearls before swine] {n. […]
cat's meow
[cat's meow] or [cat's pajamas] {n.}, {slang} Something very wonderful, special, […]
catch-22
[catch-22] {n.}, {informal} From Joseph Heller's novel "Catch-22", set in World […]
cathouse
[cathouse] {n.}, {slang} A house of ill repute, a house of […]
cease-fire
[cease-fire] {n.} A period of negotiated nonaggression, when the warring parties […]
chain gang
[chain gang] {n.} A group of convicts or slaves in the […]
chain letter
[chain letter] {n.} A letter which each person receiving it is […]
chain stores
[chain stores] {n.} A series of stores in different locations, joined […]
chain-smoke
[chain-smoke] {v.} To smoke cigarettes or cigars one after another without […]
change of heart
[change of heart] {n. phr.} A change in the way one […]
change of life
[change of life] {n. phr.} The menopause (primarily in women). * […]
change of pace
[change of pace] {n. phr.} A quick change in what you […]
charge account
[charge account] {n.} An agreement with a store through which you […]
charmed life
[charmed life] {n.} A life often saved from danger; a life […]
charver or charva
[charver] or [charva] {n.} 1. Sexual intercourse (Polari). 2. A loose […]
Chav
[Chav] {n.} Someone who is, or pretends to be of a […]
cheapskate
[cheapskate] {n.}, {informal} A selfish or stingy person; a person who […]
check-up
[check-up] {n.} A periodic examination by a physician or of some […]
cheesebox
[cheesebox] {n.}, {slang} A small, suburban house built by a land […]
cheesecake
[cheesecake] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A showing of the legs of an […]
cherry farm
[cherry farm] {n.}, {slang} A correctional institution of minimal security where […]
chicken feed
[chicken feed] {n.}, {slang} A very small sum of money. * […]
chicken switch
[chicken switch] {n.}, {slang}, {Space English} 1. The emergency eject button […]
China syndrome
[China syndrome] {n.}, {informal} From the title of the movie with […]
chinwag
[chinwag] or [chin-wag] {n.} Chat, conversation. To have a chin wag […]
chip off the old block
[chip off the old block] {n. phr.} A person whose character […]
chip on one's shoulder
[chip on one's shoulder] {n. phr.}, {informal} A quarrelsome nature; readiness […]
chippy
[chippy] {n.}
a carpenter.
chow line
[chow line] {n.}, {slang} A line of people waiting for food. […]
Christmas card
[Christmas card] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} A speeding ticket. […]
Christmas club
[Christmas club] {n.} A plan for putting money in the bank […]
cigar-store Indian
[cigar-store Indian] {n. phr.} A wooden statue of an Indian which […]
claim check
[claim check] {n.} A ticket needed to get back something. * […]
clay pigeon
[clay pigeon] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. A popular target at practice […]
clean bill of health
[clean bill of health] {n. phr.} 1. A certificate that a […]
clean break
[clean break] {n. phr.} A complete separation. * /Tom made a […]
clean hands
[clean hands] {n. phr.}, {slang} Freedom from guilt or dishonesty; innocence. […]
clean slate
[clean slate] {n. phr.} A record of nothing but good conduct, […]
clean sweep
[clean sweep] {n. phr.} A complete victory. * /Our candidate for […]
clean-up
[clean-up] {n.} 1. An act of removing all the dirt from […]
cliffdweller
[cliffdweller] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A city person who lives on a […]
clifihanger
[clifihanger] {n.}, {informal} A sports event or a movie in which […]
clinging vine
[clinging vine] {n.} A very dependent woman; a woman who needs […]
clip joint
[clip joint] {n.}, {slang} A low-class night club or other business […]
clock
[clock] {n.} 1. The face. 2. To spot, notice. 3. To […]
clock watcher
[clock watcher] {n. phr.}, {informal} A worker who always quits at […]
close call
[close call] or [shave] {n. phr.} A narrow escape. * /That […]
close quarters
[close quarters] {n. phr.} Limited, cramped space. * /With seven boy […]
close-up
[close-up] {n.} A photograph, motion picture, or video camera shot taken […]
closed book
[closed book] {n.} A secret; something not known or understood. * […]
closed shop
[closed shop] {n. phr.} 1. A plant or factory that employs […]
cluck and grunt
[cluck and grunt] {n.}, {slang}, {avoid it in restaurants} The familiar […]
cock
[cock] {n.}
1. Penis.
2. Nonsense.
3. A friend or fellow.
cock-and-bull story
[cock-and-bull story] {n. phr.} An exaggerated or unbelievable story. * /"Stop […]
cockup
[cockup] {n.} {v.} as a noun or verb, blunder, mess up […]
codswallop
[codswallop] (archaic) {n.}
Nonsense.
coffee break
[coffee break] {n.} A short recess or time out from work […]
coffee hour
[coffee hour] {n.} A time for coffee or other refreshments after […]
coffee table
[coffee table] {n.} A low table used in a living room. […]
coffin nail
[coffin nail] {n.}, {slang} A cigarette. * /"I stopped smoking," Algernon […]
cold cash
[cold cash] or [hard cash] {n.} Money that is paid at […]
cold comfort
[cold comfort] {n.} Something that makes a person in trouble feel […]
cold feet
[cold feet] {n. phr.}, {informal} A loss of courage or nerve; […]
cold fish
[cold fish] {n.}, {informal} A queer person; a person who is […]
cold shoulder
[cold shoulder] {n.}, {informal} Unfriendly treatment of a person, a showing […]
cold snap
[cold snap] {n.} A short time of quick change from warm […]
cold turkey
[cold turkey] {adv.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. Abruptly and without medical aid […]
cold war
[cold war] {n.} A struggle that is carried on by other […]
collective farm
[collective farm] {n.} A large government-run farm made by combining many […]
collector's item
[collector's item] {n.} Something rare or valuable enough to collect or […]
College Boards
[College Boards] {n.} A set of examinations given to test a […]
collywobbles
[collywobbles] {n.}
An upset stomach or acute feeling of nervousness.
color guard
[color guard] {n.} A military guard of honor for the flag […]
color scheme
[color scheme] {n.} A plan for colors used together as decoration. […]
come-on
[come-on] {n.}, {slang} An attractive offer made to a naive person […]
comeback
[comeback] {n.}, {v. phr.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} A return […]
comedown
[comedown] {n.} Disappointment; embarrassment; failure. * /It was quite a comedown […]
coming out party
[coming out party] {n. phr.} A debutante party in which a […]
command module
[command module] {n.}, {Space English} 1. One of the three main […]
common ground
[common ground] {n.} Shared beliefs, interests, or ways of understanding; ways […]
common touch
[common touch] {n.} The ability to be a friend of the […]
company man
[company man] {n.}, {informal} A worker who always agrees with management […]
congregate housing
[congregate housing] {n.}, {informal} A form of housing for elderly persons […]
conk
[conk] {n.} The head or the nose. To strike the head […]
consumer goods
[consumer goods] or [consumer items] {n.} Food and manufactured things that […]
control room
[control room] {n.} A room containing the panels and switches used […]
control tower
[control tower] {n.} A tower with large windows and a good […]
conversation piece
[conversation piece] {n.} Something that interests people and makes them talk […]
cool customer
[cool customer] {n.} Someone who is calm and in total control […]
cop
[cop] {n.} 1. A policeman (short for copper). 2. An arrest […]
cop-out
[cop-out] {n. phr.}, {slang}, {informal} An irresponsible excuse made to avoid […]
copper
[copper] {n.}
A policeman.
copy cat
[copy cat] {n.} Someone who copies another person's work or manner. […]
corker
[corker] {n.}
Someone or something outstanding.
corn ball
[corn ball] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. A superficially sentimental movie or […]
corn belt
[corn belt] {n.} 1. The Midwest; the agricultural section of the […]
cottage
[cottage] {n.}
A public lavatory.
cottaging
[cottaging] {n.}
Homosexual activity in a public lavatory.
couch case
[couch case] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A person judged emotionally so disturbed […]
couch doctor
[couch doctor] {n.}, {slang}, {colloquial} A psychoanalyst who puts his patients […]
couch potato
[couch potato] {n.} A person who is addicted to watching television […]
countdown
[countdown] {n.}. {Space English}, {informal} 1. A step-by-step process which leads […]
county mounty
[county mounty] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} Sheriff's deputy. * […]
cover girl
[cover girl] {n.} A pretty girl or woman whose picture is […]
cover-up
[cover-up] {n.}, {slang} A plan or excuse to escape blame or […]
cow college
[cow college] {n.}, {slang} 1. An agricultural college; a school where […]
cow's tail
[cow's tail] {n.}, {dialect} A person who is behind others. * […]
cowboy
[cowboy] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A person who drives his car carelessly […]
crack
[crack] {n.} 1. A gibe. 2. Someone who excels at something. […]
crack of dawn
[crack of dawn] {n. phr.} The time in the morning when […]
cracker
[cracker] {n.}
Something or someone of notable ability or quality.
crackpot
[crackpot] {n.}, {attrib. adj.}, {informal} 1. {n.} An eccentric person with […]
crash dive
[crash dive] {n.} A sudden dive made by a submarine to […]
cream of the crop
[cream of the crop] {n. phr.} The best of a group; […]
creature of habit
[creature of habit] {n. phr.} A person who does things out […]
credibility gap
[credibility gap] {n.}, {hackneyed phrase}, {politics} An apparent discrepancy between what […]
crew cut
[crew cut] or [crew haircut] {n.} A boy's or man's hair […]
crocodile tears
[crocodile tears] {n.} Pretended grief; a show of sorrow that is […]
cross fire
[cross fire] {n.} 1. Firing in a fight or battle from […]
cross street
[cross street] {n.} A street that crosses a main street and […]
cross-check
[cross-check] (2) {n.} The testing of the truth of by checking […]
crux of the matter
[crux of the matter] {n. phr.} The basic issue at hand; […]
crying shame
[crying shame] {n. phr.}
A glaring disgrace, scandal, injustice.
crystal ball
[crystal ball] {n.} A ball, usually made of quartz crystal (glass) […]
crystal gazing
[crystal gazing] {n.} The attempt to predict future events. * /The […]
cub scout
[cub scout] {n.} A member of the Cub Scouts, the junior […]
culture vulture
[culture vulture] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A person who is an avid […]
cup of tea
[cup of tea] also [dish of tea] {n. phr.}, {informal} 1. […]
curb service
[curb service] {n.} Waiting on customers while they sit in their […]
cut offs
[cut offs] {n.}, {colloquial} Pants cut to the length of shorts […]
cut rate
[cut rate] (1) {n.} A lower price; a price less than […]
cutback
[cutback] {n.} An act of decreasing monetary sources. * /The cutback […]
daily dozen
[daily dozen] {n.}, {informal} Gymnastic exercises; especially, several different exercises done […]
dark horse
[dark horse] {n.}, {informal} A political candidate little known to the […]
dark of the moon
[dark of the moon] {n. phr.}, {literary} A time when the […]
dash light
[dash light] {n.} A light on the front inside of a […]
day in court
[day in court] {n. phr.} A chance to be heard; an […]
day of grace
[day of grace] {n. phr.} An extension period after the due […]
day of reckoning
[day of reckoning] {n. phr.} 1. A time when one will […]
day off
[day off] {n.} A day on which one doesn't have to […]
daylight saving time
[daylight saving time] also [daylight saving] or [daylight time] or [fast […]
dead center
[dead center] {n.} The exact middle. * /The treasure was buried […]
dead duck
[dead duck] {n.}, {slang} A person or thing in a hopeless […]
dead letter
[dead letter] {n. phr.} An undeliverable letter that ends up in […]
dead loss
[dead loss] {n. phr.} A total waste; a complete loss. * […]
dead pedal
[dead pedal] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} A slow moving […]
dead ringer
[dead ringer] {n. phr.} A person who strongly resembles someone else. […]
dead-end
[dead-end] {n.} A street closed at one end; a situation that […]
deadbeat
[deadbeat] {n.}, {slang} A person who never pays his debts and […]
deadhead
[deadhead] {n.}, {slang} An excessively dull or boring person. * /You'll […]
deadline
[deadline] {n.} A final date by which a project, such as […]
Dear John letter
[Dear John letter] {n. phr.} A note or a letter informing […]
death knell
[death knell] {n.}, {formal} 1. The ringing of a bell at […]
deep water
[deep water] {n.} Serious trouble or difficulty. * /When Dad tried […]
delta wave
[delta wave] {n.}, {informal}, {semi-technical} A brain wave 1-3 cycles per […]
Dennis the Menace
[Dennis the Menace] {n. phr.} After the notorious television character played […]
devil of it
[devil of it] or [heck of it] {n. phr.} 1. The […]
devil to pay
[devil to pay] {n. phr.} Great trouble. - Used after "the". […]
devil-may-care attitude
[devil-may-care attitude] {n. phr.} An attitude of no concern for financial […]
diamond in the rough
[diamond in the rough] {n. phr.} A very smart person without […]
dick
[dick] {n.}
1. Fellow.
2. Penis.
dime store
[dime store] or [five-and-dime] or [five-and-ten] {n. phr.} A store that […]
dip
[dip] {n.}
a pickpocket.
dirty look
[dirty look] {n.}, {informal} A look that shows dislike. * /Miss […]
dirty old man
[dirty old man] {n. phr.} An older man who shows an […]
dirty story
[dirty story] {n. phr.} An improper or obscene story. * /Uncle […]
dirty trick
[dirty trick] {n. phr.} A treacherous action; an unfair act. * […]
disk jockey
[disk jockey] {n.} An employee at a radio station or in […]
div
[div] {n.}
idiot (prison slang)
doddle
[doddle] {n.}
Something simple or easy to accomplish.
dog
[dog] {n.}
1. A rough or unattractive woman.
2. A fellow.
dog days
[dog days] {n. phr.} The hottest days of the year in […]
dog in the manger
[dog in the manger] {n. phr.} A person who is unwilling […]
dog's bollocks
[dog's bollocks] {n.} 1. Anything obvious ("Sticks out like the dog's […]
dog's life
[dog's life] {n. phr.} A life of misery, poverty, and unhappiness. […]
dog-eat-dog
[dog-eat-dog] (1) {n.} A way of living in which every person […]
dogs age
[dog's age] or [coon's age] {n.}, {informal} A very long time. […]
Donkey's years
[Donkey's years] {n.} (Donkey's ears) a very long time. In reference […]
doofer
[doofer] {n.}
An unnamed object.
dose of one's own medicine
[dose of one's own medicine] or [taste of one's own medicine] […]
dosser
[dosser] {n.}
Someone who might stay in a dosshouse.
dosshouse
[dosshouse] {n.}
A cheap boarding house frequented by tramps.
double check
[double check] {n.} A careful second check to be sure that […]
double date
[double date] {n.}, {informal} A date on which two couples go […]
double duty
[double duty] {n.} Two uses or jobs; two purposes or duties. […]
double-header
[double-header] {n.} Two games or contests played one right after the […]
double-talk
[double-talk] {n.} 1. Something said that is worded, either on purpose […]
down east
[down east] or [Down East] {n.} The northeast coastal part of […]
down payment
[down payment] {n.} A retainer paid to a prospective seller. * […]
down-and-outer
[down-and-outer] {n. phr.} A person who has lost everything and is […]
drag on the market
[drag on the market] {n. phr.} An article for which the […]
drag race
[drag race] {n.}, {slang} An automobile race in which the drivers […]
drag strip
[drag strip] {n.}, {slang} A place where drag races are held. […]
drawback
[drawback] {n.} Disadvantage; obstacle; hindrance. * /The biggest drawback of Bill's […]
drawing card
[drawing card] {n.} The most important figure in a multi-person event; […]
dressing down
[dressing down] {n.}, {informal} A scolding. * /The sergeant gave the […]
dribs and drabs
[dribs and drabs] {n. phr.} Portions; small bits. * /John paid […]
drive-in
[drive-in] {adj.}/{n.} A kind of movie theater, fast food restaurant, or […]
drop in the bucket
[drop in the bucket] {n. phr.} A relatively small amount; a […]
dropout
[dropout] {n.} Someone who did not finish school, high school and […]
duck soup
[duck soup] {n.}, {slang} 1. A task easily accomplished or one […]
dumb bunny
[dumb bunny] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} Any person who is gullible and […]
dumbwaiter
[dumbwaiter] {n.} A small elevator for carrying food, dishes, etc., from […]
dutch treat
[dutch treat] {n.}, {informal} A meal in a restaurant or an […]
duty calls
[duty calls] {n. phr.} One must attend to one's obligations. * […]
eager beaver
[eager beaver] {n. phr.}, {slang} A person who is always eager […]
eagle eye
[eagle eye] {n.} Sharp vision like that of an eagle; the […]
ear to the ground
[ear to the ground] {n. phr.}, {informal} Attention directed to the […]
early bird
[early bird] {n} An early riser from bed. * /Jane and […]
easy mark
[easy mark] {n.} A foolishly generous person; one from whom it […]
easy money
[easy money] {n.}, {informal} Money gained without hard work; money that […]
eating irons
[eating irons] {n.}
Cutlery.
elbow grease
[elbow grease] {n.} Exertion; effort; energy. * /"You'll have to use […]
elbow room
[elbow room] {n.} Adequate space to move around or to work […]
end in itself
[end in itself] {n. phr.} Something wanted for its own sake; […]
end of one's rope
[end of one's rope] or [end of one's tether] {n. phr.}, […]
end of the road
[end of the road] or [end of the line] {n. phr.} […]
end run
[end run] {n.} A football play in which a back tries […]
end zone
[end zone] {n.} Either of the marked areas behind the goal […]
every last man
[every last man] also [every man jack] {n. phr.} Every single […]
eye shadow
[eye shadow] {n. phr.} A cream used to darken the eyelids […]
eye-catcher
[eye-catcher] {n.} Something that strongly attracts the eye. See: [CATCH ONE'S […]
eyes in the back of one's head
[eyes in the back of one's head] {n. phr.}, {informal} Ability […]
face lift
[face lift] {n. phr.} 1. A surgical procedure designed to make […]
face value
[face value] {n.} 1. The worth or price printed on a […]
facts of life
[facts of life] {n. phr.} 1. The truth which we should […]
fag
[fag] {n.}
cigarette.
fag end
[fag end] {n.} the used stub of a cigarette and by […]
fair catch
[fair catch] {n.} A catch of a kicked football by a […]
fair play
[fair play] {n.} Equal and right action (to another person); justice. […]
fair shake
[fair shake] {n.}, {informal} Honest treatment. * /Joe has always given […]
fair-haired boy
[fair-haired boy] {n.}, {informal} A person that gets special favors; favorite; […]
fair-weather friend
[fair-weather friend] {n.} A person who is a friend only when […]
fairy godmother
[fairy godmother] {n.} 1. A fairy believed to help and take […]
fairy tale
[fairy tale] or [story] {n.} An inaccurate, even false account of […]
fall guy
[fall guy] {n.}, {slang} The "patsy" in an illegal transaction; a […]
falling-out
[falling-out] {n.} Argument; disagreement; quarrel. * /Mary and Jane had a […]
fallout
[fallout] {n.} 1. Result of nuclear explosion; harmful radioactive particles. * […]
family tree
[family tree] {n.} Ancestry. * /My family tree can be traced […]
fancy pants
[fancy pants] {n.}, {slang} A man or boy who wears clothes […]
fanny
[fanny] {n.}
female external genitalia, a woman's pudendum.
far and near
[far and near] {n. phr.} Far places and near places; everywhere. […]
far cry
[far cry] {n.} Something very different. * /His last statement was […]
fast talker
[fast talker] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A con artist or a swindler, […]
fat chance
[fat chance] {n. phr.}, {slang} Little or no possibility; almost no […]
fat city
[fat city] {n.}, {slang} A state of contentment due to wealth […]
fat of the land
[fat of the land] {n. phr.} The best and richest food, […]
Father Christmas
[Father Christmas] {n.}, {British} The joyful spirit of Christmas; Santa Claus. […]
Fathers Day
[Father's Day] {n.} The third Sunday in June set aside especially […]
faultfinding
[faultfinding] {n.} Recrimination; nagging; criticism. * /All of this constant faultfinding […]
favorite son
[favorite son] {n.} A man supported by his home state for […]
fear and trembling
[fear and trembling] or [fear and trepidation] {n. phr.} Great fear. […]
feast or a famine
[feast or a famine] {n. phr.} Plenty or very little; big […]
feather in one's cap
[feather in one's cap] {n. phr.} Something to be proud of; […]
feet of clay
[feet of clay] {n. phr.} A hidden fault or weakness in […]
feet on the ground
[feet on the ground] {n. phr.} An understanding of what can […]
fellow traveller
[fellow traveller] {n.} A sympathizer with a political movement who does […]
fence
[fence] {n.}
Someone who deals in stolen property.
fence-sitter
[fence-sitter] {n.} A person unable to pick between two sides; a […]
fence-sitting
[fence-sitting] {n.} or {adj.} Choosing neither side. * /You have been […]
field goal
[field goal] {n.} 1. A score in football made by kicking […]
fifth column
[fifth column] {n. phr.} A group or organization within a country […]
fighting chance
[fighting chance] {n. phr.} A chance that necessitates struggle and courage; […]
filth (the)
[filth (the)] {n.}
The police (derogatory).
filthy lucre
[filthy lucre] {n.}, {informal} Money, especially when thought of as bad […]
fine-tooth comb
[fine-tooth comb] {n. phr.} Great care; careful attention so as not […]
finger in the pie
[finger in the pie] also [finger in every pie] {n. phr.}, […]
firebug
[firebug] {n.} An arsonist; one who willfully sets fire to property. […]
firing squad
[firing squad] {n.} A group of soldiers chosen to shoot a […]
first base
[first base] {n. phr.} 1. The base that must be touched […]
first class
[first class] {n.} 1. The first rank; the highest class; the […]
first cousin
[first cousin] {n.} The child of your aunt or uncle. * […]
first string
[first string] (1) {n.}, {informal} 1. The best group of players […]
fish fry
[fish fry] {n.} An outdoor party or picnic at which fish […]
fish out of water
[fish out of water] {n. phr.} A person who is out […]
fish story
[fish story] {n. phr.} An unlikely or improbable tale. * /Hunters […]
fish-and-chips
[fish-and-chips] {n. phr.} Fried fish and french fried potatoes. * /The […]
five o'clock shadow
[five o'clock shadow] {n. phr.} A very short growth of beard […]
fiver
[fiver] {n.}
five pounds.
flakeball
[flakeball] or [flake] {n.}, {slang}, {drug culture} A disjointed, or "flaky" […]
flanker back
[flanker back] {n.} A football back who can play far to […]
flare-up
[flare-up] {n.} The reoccurrence of an infection or an armed conflict. […]
flash card
[flash card] {n.} A card with numbers or words on it […]
flash in the pan
[flash in the pan] {n. phr.}, {slang} A person or thing […]
flasher
[flasher] {n.}
Someone who indecently exposes oneself.
flatfoot
[flatfoot] {n.}, {slang}, {derogatory} A policeman. * /"What does Joe do […]
flea in one's ear
[flea in one's ear] {n. phr.}, {informal} An idea or answer […]
flea market
[flea market] {n. phr.} A place where antiques, second-hand things, and […]
flesh and blood
[flesh and blood] {n.} 1. A close relative (as a father, […]
flick
[flick] {n.}
Motion picture, film. 'The flicks', the cinema.
flip-flop
[flip-flop] (2) {n.}, {informal} A complete change; a switch from one […]
floorwalker
[floorwalker] {n.} A section manager in a department store. * /To […]
flower child
[flower child] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. A young person who believes […]
flower power
[flower power] {n.}, {slang} The supposed power of love and nonviolence […]
fluff stuff
[fluff stuff] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} Snow. * /We […]
fly ball
[fly ball] {n.} A baseball hit high into the air. * […]
fly in the ointment
[fly in the ointment] {n. phr.}, {informal} An unpleasant part of […]
fly-by-night
[fly-by-night] (2) {n.}, {informal} 1. A company that sells many cheap […]
flying tackle
[flying tackle] {n.}, {informal} A tackle made by jumping through the […]
flying visit
[flying visit] {n. phr.} A visit of very short duration. * […]
flying wedge
[flying wedge] {n.}, {informal} 1. An offensive formation in football in […]
foggy bottom
[foggy bottom] {n.}, {slang} An area in downtown Washington, D.C. where […]
follow-up
[follow-up] {n.} Additional work or research by means of which an […]
food for thought
[food for thought] {n. phr.} Something to think about or worth […]
foot in the door
[foot in the door] {n. phr.}, {informal} The first step toward […]
force play
[force play] or [force-out] {n.} A play in baseball in which […]
forty winks
[forty winks] {n. phr.}, {informal} A short period of sleep; a […]
forward wall
[forward wall] {n.} The line of a football team. * /Princeton […]
foul ball
[foul ball] {n.} A batted baseball that lands outside the foul […]
foul line
[foul line] {n.} 1. Either of two lines separating fair from […]
foul play
[foul play] {n.} Treachery; a criminal act (such as murder). * […]
foul shot
[foul shot] {n.} A free throw given in basketball to a […]
foul-up
[foul-up] {n.} (stress on "foul") 1. {informal} A confused situation; confusion; […]
foundation garment
[foundation garment] {n.} A close-fitting garment designed for women to wear […]
four bits
[four bits] {n.}, {slang} Fifty cents. * /Tickets to the play […]
four corners
[four corners] {n.} All parts of a place. * /People came […]
four-eyes
[four-eyes] {n.}, {slang} A person who wears glasses. - A rude […]
four-leaf clover
[four-leaf clover] {n.} A small green plant with four leaves which […]
fourth class
[fourth class] {n.} A class of mail that is not sealed […]
fourth world
[fourth world] {n.}, {informal} The poor nations of the world, as […]
fox and geese
[fox and geese] {n. phr.} A tag game in which the […]
fraidy-cat
[fraidy-cat] or [fraid-cat] or [scaredy-cat] or [scared cat] {n.}, {informal} A […]
frame of mind
[frame of mind] {n. phr.} One's mental outlook; the state of […]
freak
[freak] {n.}, {slang} 1. A good, or well-liked person, the opposite […]
freak-out
[freak-out] (1) {n.}, {slang} An act of losing control; a situation […]
free agent
[free agent] {n.} A professional player who does not have a […]
free ball
[free ball] {n.} A ball in football that is in play, […]
free enterprise
[free enterprise] {n. phr.} A system in which private business is […]
free hand
[free hand] {n.} Great freedom. * /The teacher had a free […]
free rein
[free rein] {n.} Freedom to do what you want. * /The […]
free throw
[free throw] {n.} A shot at the basket in basketball without […]
free-for-all
[free-for-all] {n.} 1. Unlimited, free access to something everybody wants. * […]
French fried potato
[French fried potato] or [French fry] {n.} A narrow strip of […]
French leave
[French leave] {n.} The act of slipping away from a place […]
French letter
[French letter] {n.}
Condom.
friction tape
[friction tape] {n.} Black cloth tape with one sticky side used […]
frigging
[frigging] {n.} 1. The act of masturbating. 2. Used as an […]
Frog
[Frog] {n.}
Derogatory term for a Frenchman.
front court
[front court] {n.} The half of a basketball court that is […]
front office
[front office] {n.}, {informal} The group of persons who manage a […]
fuck-up
[fuck-up] {n.}, {vulgar}, {avoidable} A mess; a badly botched situation. * […]
fuddy-duddy
[fuddy-duddy] {n.} A person whose ideas and habits are old-fashioned. * […]
full of the moon
[full of the moon] {n. phr.}, {literary} The moon when it […]
fun and games
[fun and games] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. A party or other […]
fun house
[fun house] {n.} A place where people see many funny things […]
funny bone
[funny bone] {n.} 1. The place at the back of the […]
fuss and feathers
[fuss and feathers] {n.}, {informal} Unnecessary bother and excitement. * /She […]
fuzz (the)
[fuzz (the)] {n.}
The police.
G.I.
[G.I.] or ["government issue"] {n.} An American soldier. * /After the […]
gaff
[gaff] {n.}
House or flat.
gaffer
[gaffer] {n.}
Boss, foreman or employer.
gallows humor
[gallows' humor] {n. phr.} Bitter joke(s) that make fun of a […]
game at which two can play
[game at which two can play] {n. phr.} A plan, trick, […]
garden apartment
[garden apartment] {n.} An apartment with a garden near it. * […]
gay nineties
[gay nineties] {n.} The years between 1890 and 1900; remembered as […]
geezer
[geezer] {n.}
(informal) Man. Particularly an old one.
generation gap
[generation gap] {n.}, {informal}, {hackneyed phrase} The difference in social values, […]
get-together
[get-together] {n.} A party; a gathering. * /I hate to break […]
get-up
[get-up] {n.} (stress on "get") Fancy dress or costume. * /Some […]
get-up-and-go
[get-up-and-go] also [get-up-and-get] {n. phr.}, {informal} Energetic enthusiasm; ambitious determination; pep; […]
getaway car
[getaway car] {n. phr.} A vehicle parked near the scene of […]
ghost-writer
[ghost-writer] {n.} A writer whose identity remains a secret and who […]
gift of gab
[gift of gab] or [gift of the gab] {n. phr.}, {informal} […]
gin mill
[gin mill] {n.}, {slang} A bar where liquor is sold. * […]
girl Friday
[girl Friday] {n.} A very dependable and helpful female office worker; […]
girl friend
[girl friend] {n.}, {informal} 1. A female friend or companion. * […]
give-and-take
[give-and-take] {n. phr.} 1. A sharing; giving and receiving back and […]
giveaway
[giveaway] or [dead giveaway] {n.} (stress on "give") 1. An open […]
glad hand
[glad hand] {n.}, {informal} A friendly handshake; a warm greeting. * […]
glad rags
[glad rags] {n.}, {slang} Clothes worn to parties or on special […]
glass jaw
[glass jaw] {n.}, {slang} The inability of a boxer to get […]
globe-trotter
[globe-trotter] {n.} One who has travelled far and wide. * /Tim […]
glutton for punishment
[glutton for punishment] {n. phr.} A greedy person; someone who wants […]
go-between
[go-between] {n.} An intermediary. * /They expect Mr. Smith to act […]
go-getter
[go-getter] {n.} A person who works hard to become successful; an […]
goal line
[goal line] {n.} A line that marks the goal in a […]
goal line stand
[goal line stand] {n.} A strong defensive effort right in front […]
gob
[gob] {n.}
1. Mouth
2. To spit.
3. Spittle.
gobshite
[gobshite] {n.}
(Taboo) A stupid or despicable person.
gogglebox
[gogglebox] {n.}
Television.
goldfish bowl
[goldfish bowl] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. A situation in which it […]
golf widow
[golf widow] {n.}, {informal} A woman whose husband is often away […]
gone goose
[gone goose] also [gone gosling] {n.}, {slang} A person for whom […]
gong
[gong] {n.}
A medal. Usually a military one.
good buddy
[good buddy] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} Salutation used by […]
good deal
[good deal] or [great deal] {n.}, {informal} A large amount; much. […]
good egg
[good egg] {slang} or {informal} [good scout] {n. phr.} A friendly, […]
good faith
[good faith] {n.} 1. Belief in another person's honesty; trust. * […]
good head on one's shoulders
[good head on one's shoulders] {n. phr.} Good sense; good judgment. […]
good many
[good many] or [great many] {n.} or {adj.} A large number […]
good nature
[good nature] {n.} Readiness to please others and to be pleased. […]
good riddance
[good riddance] {n.} A loss that you are glad about. Often […]
goolies
[goolies] {n.}
The male genitals and in particular the testicles.
goose bumps
[goose bumps] or [goose pimples] {n. plural}, {informal} Small bumps that […]
gopher ball
[gopher ball] {n.}, {slang} A baseball pitch that is hit for […]
grab bag
[grab bag] {n.} 1. A bag from which surprise packages are […]
grace period
[grace period] or [period of grace] {n.} The time or extra […]
grand
[grand] {n.}
£1000
grand slam
[grand slam] {n.} A home run hit when there are three […]
grandstander
[grandstander] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A showoff, a person who likes to […]
graveyard shift
[graveyard shift] {n. phr.} The work period lasting from sundown to […]
gravy train
[gravy train] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} The kind of job that brings […]
grease monkey
[grease monkey] {n.}, {slang} 1. A person who greases or works […]
grease-ball
[grease-ball] {n.}, {slang}, {derogatory} (avoid) An immigrant from a southern country, […]
greasy spoon
[greasy spoon] {n.}, {informal} Any small, inexpensive restaurant patronized by workers […]
green power
[green power] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} The social prestige or power money […]
green thumb
[green thumb] {n.}, {informal} A talent for gardening; ability to make […]
green-eyed monster
[green-eyed monster] {n. phr.} Jealousy; envy. * /When John's brother got […]
gross-out session
[gross-out session] {n.}, {slang}, {avoidable} A verbal contest between teen-agers in […]
grot
[grot] {n.}
Rubbish or dirt.
ground ball
[ground ball] {n.} A ball batted onto the ground in baseball; […]
ground floor
[ground floor] {n.} 1. First floor of a house or building. […]
ground rule
[ground rule] {n.} 1. A rule in sports that is made […]
growing pains
[growing pains] {n.} 1. Pains in children's legs supposed to be […]
guff
[guff] {n.} 1. Ridiculous talk. Nonsense. 2. Flatulence. Probably from the […]
gut feeling
[gut feeling] {n. phr.} An instinctive reaction. * /I have a […]
gut reaction
[gut reaction] {n. phr.} A mental or physical response that springs […]
gut talk
[gut talk] {n. phr.} Sincere, honest talk. * /We admire people […]
hail-fellow-well-met
[hail-fellow-well-met] (2) {n. phr.} A good friend and companion; buddy; pal. […]
haircut place
[haircut place] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} Bridge or overpass […]
hairdo
[hairdo] {n.} Style or manner of arranging, combing, or wearing one's […]
half a chance
[half a chance] or [a half chance] {n.} An opportunity; a […]
half a mind
[half a mind] also [half a notion] {n. phr.}, {informal} A […]
half an eye
[half an eye] {n. phr.} A slight glance; a quick look. […]
half-and-half
[half-and-half] (2) {n.} A mixture of milk and cream in equal […]
half-holiday
[half-holiday] {n.} A day on which you get out of school […]
half-time
[half-time] {n.} A rest period in the middle of certain games. […]
ham actor
[ham actor] {n. phr.}, {slang} An untalented actor; someone who tries […]
hampton
[hampton] {n.} Penis (rhyming slang from, Hampton Wick = prick; and […]
hand-me-down
[hand-me-down] {n.}, {informal} Something given away after another person has no […]
handbags
[handbags] {n.} a harmless fight especially between two women. (from "handbags […]
handle to one's name
[handle to one's name] {n. phr.}, {slang} A special title used […]
handout
[handout] {n.} 1. A free gift of food, clothes, etc. * […]
handwriting on the wall
[handwriting on the wall] {n. phr.} A sign that something bad […]
hang-up
[hang-up] {n.}, {informal} (stress on "hang") 1. A delay in some […]
hangover
[hangover] {n.} A bad feeling of nausea and/or headache the day […]
happy hour
[happy hour] {n.}, {informal} A time in bars or restaurants when […]
happy hunting ground
[happy hunting ground] {n. phr.} 1. The place where, in American […]
hard cheese
[hard cheese] {n.}
Bad luck.
hard feeling
[hard feeling] {n.} Angry or bitter feeling; enmity. - Usually used […]
hard line
[hard line] {n. phr.} Tough political policy. * /Although modern economists […]
hard nut to crack
[hard nut to crack] also [tough nut to crack] {n. phr.}, […]
hard row to hoe
[hard row to hoe] or [tough row to hoe] {n. phr.} […]
hard sell
[hard sell] {n.}, {informal} A kind of salesmanship characterized by great […]
hard sledding
[hard sledding] or [rough sledding] or [tough sledding] {n.}, {informal} Difficulty […]
hard way
[hard way] {n.} The harder or more punishing of two or […]
hard-liner
[hard-liner] {n.} A politician who takes the hard line. See: [HARD […]
hard-on
[hard-on] {n.}, {vulgar}, {avoidable}. An erection of the male sexual organ. […]
hard-top
[hard-top] {n.} 1. A car that has a metal roof; a […]
hash house
[hash house] {n.}, {slang} An eating place where cheap meals are […]
hatchet face
[hatchet face] {n.} A long narrow face with sharp parts; also, […]
hatchet job
[hatchet job] {n. phr.}, {slang} 1. The act of saying or […]
hatchet man
[hatchet man] {n.}, {colloquial} 1. A politician or newspaper columnist whose […]
he-man
[he-man] {n.}, {informal} A man who is very strong, brave, and […]
head
[head] {n.} 1. Lavatory (nautical slang) 2. Drug user. Sometimes preceded […]
head above water
[head above water] {n. phr.} out of difficulty; clear of trouble. […]
head start
[head start] {n.} 1. A beginning before someone; lead or advantage […]
head-hunting
[head-hunting] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. The custom of seeking out, decapitating, […]
headbanger
[headbanger] {n.} One who headbangs or a fan of heavy rock […]
heads or tails
[heads or tails] {n. phr.} The two sides of a coin, […]
headshrinker
[headshrinker] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A psychoanalyst, also called a shrink. * […]
heart and soul
[heart and soul] (1) {n.} Eager love; strong feeling; great enthusiasm. […]
heart of gold
[heart of gold] {n. phr.} A kind, generous, or forgiving nature. […]
heart of stone
[heart of stone] {n. phr.} A nature without pity. * /Mr. […]
heartbreaker
[heartbreaker] {n.} One with numerous admirers of the opposite sex; one […]
heavy
[heavy] {n.} 1. The use or threat of violence. 2. Someone […]
heavy heart
[heavy heart] {n. phr.} A feeling of being weighed down with […]
hell and high water
[hell and high water] {n. phr.} Troubles or difficulties of any […]
hell-on-wheels
[hell-on-wheels] {n.}, {slang} A short-tempered, nagging, or crabby person especially one […]
helmet
[helmet] {n.}
The glans of the penis.
hen party
[hen party] {n. phr.}, {informal} A party to which only women […]
here and now
[here and now] (2) {n.} The present time and place; today. […]
hide or hair
[hide or hair] or [hide nor hair] {n. phr.}, {informal} A […]
hideout
[hideout] {n.} A place where one hides. * /The wanted criminal […]
high camp
[high camp] {n.}, {slang}, {show business} 1. Kitsch, or pretentious material […]
high fashion
[high fashion] or [high style] {n. phr.} The new style in […]
high gear
[high gear] {n. phr.}, {informal} Top speed; full activity. * /Production […]
high jinks
[high jinks] {n. phr.}, {informal} Noisy or rough gaiety; wild play; […]
high place
[high place] {n. phr.} A position of responsibility, honor, and power. […]
high seas
[high seas] {n. phr.} The open ocean, not the waters near […]
high season
[high season] {n. phr.} The time of year when the largest […]
high sign
[high sign] {n. phr.}, {informal} A silent signal of recognition, greeting, […]
higher education
[higher education] {n.} Schooling after graduation from high school, especially in […]
higher-up
[higher-up] {n.}, {informal} One of the people who has one of […]
highway robbery
[highway robbery] {n. phr.} 1. A hold-up of or theft from […]
hired man
[hired man] {n. phr.} A man employed to do jobs every […]
hit parade
[hit parade] {n.} 1. A list of songs or tunes arranged […]
holdout
[holdout] {n.} A rebel who refuses to go with the majority. […]
holdover
[holdover] {n.} 1. A successful movie or theater production that plays […]
holdup
[holdup] {n.} 1. Robbery. * /John fell victim to a highway […]
hole in one
[hole in one] {n. phr.} A shot in golf that is […]
hole-in-the-wall
[hole-in-the-wall] {n. phr.} A small place to live, stay in, or […]
holistic health
[holistic health] {n.}, {informal}, {semi-technical} The maintenance of health and the […]
holy terror
[holy terror] {n.}, {informal} A very disobedient or unruly child; brat. […]
home brew
[home brew] {n. phr.} A beer or other malt liquor made […]
home plate
[home plate] {n.} The base in baseball where the batter stands […]
home run
[home run] {n.} A hit in baseball that allows the batter […]
honest broker
[honest broker] {n. phr.} A person hired or appointed to act […]
honk
[honk] {n.}
Vomit.
honky-tonk
[honky-tonk] {n.} A cheap nightclub or dance hall. * /There were […]
hookup
[hookup] {n.} A connection, electrical or otherwise, between two instruments or […]
hooky or hookey
[hooky or hookey] {n.} 1. Something that is stolen (probably from […]
hooter
[hooter] {n.}
Nose.
horns of a dilemma
[horns of a dilemma] {n. phr.} Two choices possible in a […]
horse of a different color
[horse of a different color] or [horse of another color] {n. […]
horse opera
[horse opera] {n. phr.} A Western movie in which cowboys and […]
horse sense
[horse sense] {n.}, {informal} A good understanding about what to do […]
horse trade
[horse trade] {n.} 1. The sale of a horse or the […]
horsefeathers!
[horsefeathers!] {n. phr.}, {slang} 1. Not true; I don't believe what […]
horselaugh
[horselaugh] {n. phr.} A loud, sarcastic, and derisive laugh. * /When […]
horseplay
[horseplay] {n.} Rough, practical joking. * /The newlyweds couldn't get a […]
hot air
[hot air] {n.}, {informal} Nonsense, exaggerated talk, wasted words characterized by […]
hot dog
[hot dog] {n. phr.}, {informal} A frankfurter or wiener in a […]
hot number
[hot number] {n.}, {slang} A person or thing noticed as newer, […]
hot one
[hot one] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} Something out of the ordinary; something […]
hot potato
[hot potato] {n.}, {informal} A question that causes strong argument and […]
hot rod
[hot rod] {n.}, {informal} An older automobile changed so that it […]
hot seat
[hot seat] {n.}, {slang} 1. The electric chair used to cause […]
hot stuff
[hot stuff] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} Coffee. * /Let's […]
hot water
[hot water] {n.} {informal} Trouble. - Used with "in", "into", "out", […]
house detective
[house detective] {n.} A detective employed by a hotel, store, or […]
house of cards
[house of cards] {n. phr.} Something badly put together and easily […]
house of ill fame
[house of ill fame] or [of ill repute] {n. phr.} A […]
howling success
[howling success] {n.}, {informal} A great success; something that is much […]
hue and cry
[hue and cry] {n.} 1. An alarm and chase after a […]
hunt and peck
[hunt and peck] {n. phr.}, {informal} Picking out typewriter keys by […]
idiot box
[idiot box] {n.} A television set. * /Phil has been staring […]
idiot box
[idiot box] {n.}
Television.
ill-gotten gains
[ill-gotten gains] {n. phr.} Goods or money obtained in an illegal […]
Indian giver
[Indian giver] {n. phr.} A person who gives one something, but […]
Indian sign
[Indian sign] {n.}, {informal} A magic spell that is thought to […]
Indian summer
[Indian summer] {n. phr.} A dry and warm period of time […]
industrial park
[industrial park] {n.} A complex of industrial buildings and/or businesses usually […]
inner city
[inner city] {n.}, {colloquial} Densely populated neighborhoods in large metropolitan areas […]
innuendo
[innuendo] {n.} An indirect or subtle reference, esp. one made maliciously […]
ins and outs
[ins and outs] {n. phr.} The special ways of going somewhere […]
inside track
[inside track] {n. phr.} 1. The inside, shortest distance around a […]
iron horse
[iron horse] {n.}, {informal} A railroad locomotive; the engine of a […]
iron in the fire
[iron in the fire] {n. phr.} Something you are doing; one […]
itching palm
[itching palm] {n.}, {slang} A wish for money; greed. * /He […]
ivories
[ivories] {n.} 1. Teeth. 2. The keys of a piano. 3. […]
Ivy League
[Ivy League] {n.} A small group of the older and more […]
jack of all trades
[jack of all trades] {n.}, {informal} (Often followed by "master of […]
Jack the lad
[Jack the lad] {n.} A young man who is regarded as […]
jack-rabbit start
[jack-rabbit start] {n.}, {informal} A very sudden start from a still […]
jacksy (or jacksie)
[jacksy (or jacksie)] {n.}
The buttocks or anus.
jag
[jag] {adj.} {n.} 1. A drug taking, or sometimes drinking, binge. […]
jailbait
[jailbait] {n.}, {slang} A girl below the legal age of consent […]
jailbird
[jailbird] {n.}, {informal} A convict; someone who is in jail or […]
jake flake
[jake flake] {n.}, {slang} A boring person whose company is usually […]
jawbreaker
[jawbreaker] {n.} 1. A large piece of hard candy or bubblegum. […]
jerry
[jerry] {n.}
A chamber pot.
Jerry
[Jerry] {n.}
A German or German soldier.
jessie
[jessie] {n.} An effeminate man or one that is weak or […]
Jesus boots
[Jesus boots] or [Jesus shoes] {n.}, {slang} Men's sandals, particularly as […]
jim-dandy
[jim-dandy] {n.}, {slang} Something wonderful; something very good. * /Tommy's new […]
jissom
[jissom] {n.}
semen (taboo).
Joe Bloggs
[Joe Bloggs] {n.}
A man who is average, typical or unremarkable.
Joe Doakes
[Joe Doakes] {n.} A name used informally for the average man. […]
Joe Soap
[Joe Soap] {n.}
An idiot, stooge or scapegoat.
John Doe
[John Doe] {n.} A name used for an unknown person, especially […]
John Hancock
[John Hancock] or [John Henry] {n.}, {informal} Your signature; your name […]
John Q. Public
[John Q. Public] {n.} A name used informally for the average […]
John Thomas
[John Thomas] {n.}
Penis.
Johnny
[Johnny] {n.}
Condom. Sometimes also a 'Johnny bag' or 'rubber Johnny'.
Johnny-come-lately
[Johnny-come-lately] {n.} Someone new in a place or group; newcomer; also: […]
josser
[josser] {n.}
A cretin or simpleton.
judgment seat
[judgment seat] {n.} A place where you are judged; a place […]
juice dealer
[juice dealer] {n.}, {slang} An underworld money lender who charges exorbitant […]
jump
[jump] {n.} {v.}
As a noun or verb, sexual intercourse.
jump ball
[jump ball] {n.} The starting of play in basketball by tossing […]
jump pass
[jump pass] {n.} A pass (as in football or basketball) made […]
jumping-off place
[jumping-off place] {n. phr.} 1. A place so far away that […]
just what the doctor ordered
[just what the doctor ordered] {n. phr.}, {informal} Exactly what is […]
kangaroo court
[kangaroo court] {n.} A self-appointed group that decides what to do […]
kick in the pants
[kick in the pants] or [kick in the teeth] {n. phr.}, […]
kickback
[kickback] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} Money paid illegally for favorable treatment. * […]
kickoff
[kickoff] {n.} The start of something, like a new venture, a […]
kiddie car
[kiddie car] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} A school bus. […]
kindled spirits
[kindled spirits] {n. phr.} People who resemble each other in numerous […]
kings ransom
[king's ransom] {n. phr.} 1. An excessively large sum of money […]
kip
[kip] {n.} 1. Sleep, nap 2. Bed or lodging 3. Brothel […]
knackers
[knackers] {n.}
vulgar name for testicles.
kneeling bus
[kneeling bus] {n.}, {informal} A bus equipped with a hydraulic device […]
knees up
[knees up] {n.}
A lively party or dance.
knob
[knob] {n.} 1. Penis. 2. (of a man) To have sexual […]
knob-end
[knob-end] {n.}
an idiot, or tip of penis (see [bell-end]).
knobhead
[knobhead] {n.}
a stupid, irritating person.
knockers
[knockers] {n.}
Breasts.
knocking shop
[knocking shop] {n.}
Brothel.
knockout
[knockout] {n.}, {slang} 1. Strikingly beautiful woman. * /Sue is a […]
knotty problem
[knotty problem] {n. phr.} A very complicated and difficult problem to […]
know-how
[know-how] {n.}, {slang} Expertise; ability to devise and construct. * /The […]
know-it-all
[know-it-all] {n.} A person who acts as if he knows all […]
labor movement
[labor movement] {n.} Groups which form, strengthen, and increase membership in […]
labor of love
[labor of love] {n. phr.} Something done for personal pleasure and […]
ladies' room
[ladies' room] {n. phr.} A public toilet and restroom for women. […]
lady friend
[lady friend] {n.} 1. A woman friend. * /His aunt stays […]
lady of the house
[lady of the house] {n. phr.} Female owner, or wife of […]
lady's man
[lady's man] {n.} A man or boy who likes to be […]
lady-killer
[lady-killer] {n.}, {informal} 1. Any man who has strong sex appeal […]
lag
[lag] {n.}
Convict, particularly a long serving one (an old lag).
lame duck
[lame duck] {n.}, {informal} An elected public official who has been […]
land of nod
[land of nod] {n. phr.} Sleep. * /The little girl went […]
land-office business
[land-office business] {n.}, {informal} A great rush of business. * /It […]
landing ship
[landing ship] {n.} A ship built to land troops and army […]
landslide
[landslide] {n.} An overwhelming victory during a political election. * /Ronald […]
lardhead
[lardhead] {n.}, {slang} A stupid or slow-witted person. * /You'll never […]
large order
[large order] {n. phr.} Difficult job; a difficult task to fulfill. […]
lash
[lash] {v.} {n.}
1. Urinate.
2. Alcohol.
last ditch
[last ditch] {n.} The last place that can be defended; the […]
last lap
[last lap] {n. phr.} The final stage. * /Although the trip […]
last leg
[last leg] {n. phr.} 1. Final stages of physical weakness before […]
last stand
[last stand] {n. phr.}
See: [LAST DITCH].
last straw
[last straw] or [straw that breaks the camel's back] {n. phr.} […]
last word
[last word] {n.} 1. The last remark in an argument. * […]
latch string
[latch string] {n.} 1. A string that opens an old-fashioned door […]
laughing gear
[laughing gear] {n.}
Mouth.
laughing matter
[laughing matter] {n.} A funny happening; a silly situation. - Usually […]
launch window
[launch window] {n.}, {Space English}, {informal} 1. A period of time […]
law of averages
[law of averages] {n. phr.} The idea that you can't win […]
law unto oneself
[law unto oneself] {n. phr.}, {literary} A person who does only […]
lay of the land
[lay of the land] also [how the land lies] {n. phr.} […]
lay-away plan
[lay-away plan] {n.} A plan for buying something that you can't […]
layoff
[layoff] {n.} A systematic or periodical dismissal of employees from a […]
layout
[layout] {n.} General situation; arrangement; plan. * /The layout of their […]
layover
[layover] {n.} A stopover, usually at an airport or in a […]
lazybones
[lazybones] {n.} {informal} A lazy person. * /Seeing him return so […]
leading light
[leading light] {n. phr.} A prominent person in a community, company, […]
lean-to
[lean-to] {n.} 1. A shed for tools, such as spades, hoes, […]
leap year
[leap year] {n.} Every fourth year during which the month of […]
leatherneck
[leatherneck] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A member of the United States Marine […]
left field
[left field] {n.} 1. The part of a baseball out-field to […]
left-handed compliment
[left-handed compliment] An ambiguous compliment which is interpretable as an offense. […]
leg man
[leg man] {n.}, {informal} 1. An errand boy; one who performs […]
leg to stand on
[leg to stand on] {n. phr.} A firm foundation of facts; […]
leg work
[leg work] {n.}, {informal} The physical end of a project, such […]
less than no time
[less than no time] {n. phr.}, {informal} Very quickly. * /We […]
letdown
[letdown] {n.} A disappointment; a heartbreak. * /It was a major […]
lick and a promise
[lick and a promise] {n. phr.}, {informal} A careless, hasty job; […]
life of Riley
[life of Riley] {n. phr.}, {informal} A soft easy life; pleasant […]
life of the party
[life of the party] {n. phr.} A person who makes things […]
light housekeeping
[light housekeeping] {n.}, {slang} An arrangement in which an unmarried couple […]
line drive
[line drive] {n.} A batted baseball that is usually hit hard […]
line of fire
[line of fire] {n. phr.} The path that something fired or […]
line of least resistance
[line of least resistance] or [path of least resistance] {n. phr.} […]
line of scrimmage
[line of scrimmage] {n. phr.} An imaginary line on a football […]
lineup
[lineup] {n.} 1. An alignment of objects in a straight line. […]
lions share
[lion's share] {n. phr.} A disproportionate share; the largest part. * […]
lip service
[lip service] {n.} Support shown by words only and not by […]
liquid assets
[liquid assets] {n. phr.} Those belongings that can be easily converted […]
litterbug
[litterbug] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A person who leaves garbage in a […]
little frog in a big pond
[little frog in a big pond] or [small frog in a […]
little theater
[little theater] {n.} A theater, usually with nonprofessional actors and actresses, […]
live wire
[live wire] {n. phr.} 1. An electrically charged wire, usually uninsulated. […]
loan shark
[loan shark] {n. phr.} A money lender who charges excessive interest. […]
local
[local] {n.}
A public house close to one's home.
local yokel
[local yokel] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} City police officer, […]
lock, stock, and barrel
[lock, stock, and barrel] {n. phr.} Everything; completely. * /The robbers […]
lolly
[lolly] {n.}
money.
lone wolf
[lone wolf] {n.} A man who likes to work or live […]
long and short of it
[long and short of it] {n. phr.} The essence; the whole […]
long ball
[long ball] {n.} A baseball hit far enough to be a […]
long face
[long face] {n.} A sad look; disappointed look. * /He told […]
long haul
[long haul] or [long pull] {n.}, {informal} 1. A long distance […]
long pull
[long pull]
See: [LONG HAUL].
long shot
[long shot] {n.} 1. A bet or other risk taken though […]
longhair
[longhair] (1) 1. {n.}, {slang} A male hippie. * /Who's that […]
loo
[loo] {n.}
lavatory.
look-in
[look-in] {n.}, {informal} A chance or hope. - Usually used with […]
loose ends
[loose ends] {n.} 1. Parts or things that should be finished […]
lost cause
[lost cause] {n. phr.} A movement that has failed and has […]
loud mouth
[loud mouth] or [big mouth] {n.}, {slang} A noisy, boastful, or […]
lounge lizard
[lounge lizard] {n. phr.} A well-dressed male fortune hunter who sits […]
love affair
[love affair] {n.} A friendship between lovers; a romance or courtship. […]
love game
[love game] {n.} A game of tennis which is won without […]
love-in
[love-in] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A festival or occasion to celebrate life, […]
lover's lane
[lovers' lane] {n.} A hidden road or walk where lovers walk […]
lowbrow
[lowbrow] {n.} A person of limited culture; a nonintellectual. * /Some […]
lowdown
[lowdown] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} The inside facts of a matter; the […]
lucky star
[lucky star] {n.} A certain star or planet which, by itself […]
lump in one's throat
[lump in one's throat] {n. phr.} A feeling (as of grief […]
lump sum
[lump sum] {n.} The complete amount; a total agreed upon and […]
lunar module (L.M.)
[lunar module (L.M.)] or [Lem] {n.}, {Space English} That portion of […]
magic carpet
[magic carpet] {n.} 1. A rug said to be able to […]
maiden speech
[maiden speech] {n. phr.} One's first public speech, usually before some […]
maiden voyage
[maiden voyage] {n. phr.} The first voyage of a boat. * […]
mail order
[mail order] {n. phr.} A purchase made by mail. * /If […]
main drag
[main drag] {n.}, {colloquial} 1. The most important street or thoroughfare […]
main squeeze
[main squeeze] {n.}, {slang} 1. The top ranking person in an […]
majority leader
[majority leader] {n.} The leader of the political party with the […]
make-believe
[make-believe] {n.} False; untrue; created by illusion. * /The creatures of […]
makeup
[makeup] {n.} (stress on "make") 1. Cosmetics. * /All the actors […]
mama's boy
[mama's boy] {n. phr.}, {informal} A boy who depends too much […]
man
[man] or [the man] {n.}, {slang} 1. The police; a policeman. […]
man in the moon
[man in the moon] {n. phr.} An imaginary or nonexistent person […]
man in the street
[man in the street] {n. phr.} The man who is just […]
man of few words
[man of few words] {n. phr.} A man who doesn't talk […]
man of his word
[man of his word] {n. phr.} A man who keeps his […]
man of letters
[man of letters] {n. phr.} A writer; an author; a scholar. […]
man of means
[man of means] {n. phr.} A rich person. * /He became […]
man of parts
[man of parts] {n. phr.}, {literary} A man who has several […]
man-about-town
[man-about-town] {n. phr.} A sophisticate; an idler; a member of cafe […]
man-of-war
[man-of-war] {n. phr.} 1. A stinging jellyfish in the Gulf of […]
marbles
[marbles] {n.}
Wits. As in, to lose one's marbles.
mare
[mare] {n.}
Woman (derogatory).
mare's nest
[mare's nest] {n. phr.} Something that doesn't exist; a discovery that […]
mark
[mark] {n.}
A suitable victim for a con or swindle.
markdown
[markdown] {n.} A reduction in price. * /Joan asked, "Do you […]
marked man
[marked man] {n. phr.} A man whose behavior has made him […]
masking tape
[masking tape] {n.} A paper tape that is stuck around the […]
master copy
[master copy] {n.} 1. A perfect text to which all copies […]
master key
[master key] {n. phr.} A key that opens a set of […]
master of ceremonies
[master of ceremonies] or [M.C.] or [emcee] {n.} The person in […]
mastermind
[mastermind] {n.} A person who supplies the intelligence for a project […]
matelot
[matelot] {n.}
Sailor (from the French).
matter of course
[matter of course] {n. phr.} Something always done; the usual way; […]
matter of fact
[matter of fact] {n. phr.} Something that is really true; something […]
matter of opinion
[matter of opinion] {n. phr.} Something that may or may not […]
matter of record
[matter of record] {n. phr.} A fact or event that is […]
means to an end
[means to an end] {n. phr.} An action leading to some […]
meat and two veg
[meat and two veg] {n.} Literally a traditional meal consisting of […]
meatball
[meatball] {n.}, {slang} A dull, boring, slow-witted, or uninteresting person. * […]
melting pot
[melting pot] {n. phr.} A country where different nationalities mingle and […]
mental telepathy
[mental telepathy] {n. phr.} The passing of one person's thoughts to […]
mercy killing
[mercy killing] {n. phr.} The act of killing a terminally ill […]
method in (to) one's madness
[method in (to) one's madness] {n. phr.} A plan or organization […]
Mick
[Mick] {n.}
An Irishman (derogatory).
mickey mouse
[mickey mouse] (2) {n.} ({derogatory}) A stupid person; a policeman; a […]
middle ground
[middle ground] {n.} A place halfway between the two sides of […]
middle of the road
[middle of the road] {n. phr.} A way of thinking which […]
middleman
[middleman] {n.} A person or small business standing in an intermediary […]
midfield stripe
[midfield stripe] {n.} The line across the center of a football […]
mile markers
[mile markers] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} Small signs along […]
milk run
[milk run] {n.}
A 'safe' mission or patrol.
millstone around one's neck
[millstone around one's neck] {n. phr.} An intolerable burden. * /Max […]
mind like a steel trap
[mind like a steel trap] {n. phr.} A very quick and […]
mine of information
[mine of information] {n. phr.} A person, a book, etc., that […]
minge
[minge] {n.}
Vagina
minger
[minger] {n.}
Someone who smells.
minority leader
[minority leader] {n. phr.} The leader of the political party that […]
minutes of the meeting
[minutes of the meeting] {n. phr.} The notes taken by the […]
missing link
[missing link] {n.} 1. Something needed to complete a group; a […]
mixed bag
[mixed bag] {n. phr.} A varied set of people, ideas, objects, […]
mixed blessing
[mixed blessing] {n.} Something good that has bad features. * /John's […]
moggy
[moggy] {n.}
Cat.
moke
[moke] {n.}
Donkey.
money to burn
[money to burn] {n. phr.}, {informal} Very much money, more than […]
moniker or monicker
[moniker or monicker] {n.}
Name, nickname, signature or mark.
monkey
[monkey] {n.}
£500.
monkey business
[monkey business] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. Any unethical, illegitimate, or objectionable […]
monkey on one's back
[monkey on one's back] {n. phr.}, {informal} An unsolved or nagging […]
month of Sundays
[month of Sundays] {n. phr.}, {informal} A very long time. - […]
moolah
[moolah] {n.}
Money.
moonshine
[moonshine] {n.} Illegally distilled alcoholic beverage made at home, mostly on […]
more the merrier
[more the merrier] {n. phr.} The more people who join in […]
morning after
[morning after] {n.}, {slang} The effects of drinking liquor or staying […]
moving spirit
[moving spirit] {n. phr.} The main figure behind a business or […]
mucker
[mucker] {n.}
Mate, pal.
mud in your eye
[mud in your eye] {n. phr.}, {informal} A cheering exclamation when […]
mufti
[mufti] {n.} Civilian dress worn by someone who normally wears a […]
mug
[mug] {n.}
1. Face.
2. A gullible or easily swindled person.
mug shot
[mug shot] {n. phr.} A police photograph showing the arrested person's […]
munta
[munta] {n.}
Ugly person.
mush
[mush] {n.} 1. Face or mouth. 2. Familiar term of address. […]
music to one's ears
[music to one's ears] {n. phr.} Something one likes to hear. […]
musical chairs
[musical chairs] {n. phr.} (Originally the name of a children's game.) […]
name day
[name day] {n.} The day of the saint for whom a […]
name of the game
[name of the game] {n.}, {informal} The crux of the matter; […]
namedropper
[namedropper] {n. phr.} A person who is always mentioning well-known names. […]
nark
[nark] {n.} {v.} 1. As a verb or noun; spy or […]
narrow escape
[narrow escape] {n. phr.} An escape by a very small margin; […]
neck of the woods
[neck of the woods] {n. phr.}, {informal} Part of the country; […]
necktie party
[necktie party] {n.}, {slang} A hanging by a mob; lynching. * […]
ned
[ned] {n.} (Scottish) a lout, a drunken brawling fellow, a tough. […]
needle in a haystack
[needle in a haystack] {n. phr.}, {informal} Something that will be […]
neither rhyme nor reason
[neither rhyme nor reason] {n. phr.} No emotional or intellectual substance. […]
nervous breakdown
[nervous breakdown] {n.} A mild or severe attack of mental illness; […]
Nervous Nellie
[Nervous Nellie] {n.}, {informal} A timid person who lacks determination and […]
nervous prostration
[nervous prostration] {n.} An illness of the mind that makes you […]
nest egg
[nest egg] {n.} Savings set aside to be used in the […]
new blood
[new blood] {n.} Something or someone that gives new life or […]
new deal
[new deal] {n.}, {informal} 1. A complete change; a fresh start. […]
new lease on life
[new lease on life] {n. phr.} A new chance to live; […]
new man
[new man] {n.} A person who has become very much better. […]
new money
[new money] {n. phr.} People who have become rich recently. * […]
newshawk
[newshawk] {n.} A newspaper reporter. * /There are always a lot […]
next to nothing
[next to nothing] {n. phr.} Very little; almost nothing. * /They […]
nice Nelly
[nice Nelly] (1) or [nice Nellie] {n.}, {informal} Someone who acts […]
nicker
[nicker] {n.}
Pound sterling.
nigger in the woodpile
[nigger in the woodpile] {n. phr.}, {slang} Something unexpected that changes […]
night letter
[night letter] {n.} A telegram sent at night at a cheaper […]
night life
[night life] {n. phr.} Entertainment at night. * /People in the […]
night owl
[night owl] {n. phr.} One who sleeps during the day and […]
nightcap
[nightcap] {n.} A good-night drink; a drink taken just before bedtime. […]
nine-to-five job
[nine-to-five job] {n. phr.} A typical office job that starts at […]
no account
[no account] (2) {n. phr.} A person of low social station. […]
no frills
[no frills] {n. phr.} A firm or product that offers no […]
no hard feelings
[no hard feelings] {n. phr.} A lack of resentment or anger; […]
no kidding
[no kidding] {n. phr.} Without jokes or teasing; honestly spoken. * […]
no love lost
[no love lost] {n. phr.} Bad feeling; ill will. * /Bob […]
no picnic
[no picnic] {n. phr.} Something arduous; something that requires great effort […]
no spring chicken
[no spring chicken] {n. phr.} A person who is no longer […]
no two ways about it
[no two ways about it] {n. phr.} No other choice; no […]
no use
[no use] {n.} 1. No purpose; no object; no gain. * […]
no-show
[no-show] {n.}, {informal} A person who makes a reservation, e.g., at […]
nob
[nob] {n.}
1. Person of high social standing.
2. Head.
nobodys fool
[nobody's fool] {n. phr.} A smart person; a person who knows […]
nodding acquaintance
[nodding acquaintance] {n.} Less than casual acquaintance. * /I have never […]
nonce
[nonce] {n.}
Sex offender, most commonly a child molester. (Prison slang)
nonstarter
[nonstarter] {n.} An idea, plan, or project that doesn't work or […]
nookie or nooky
[nookie] or [nooky] {n.}
Sexual intercourse.
nose in a book
[nose in a book] {n. phr.} Busy interest in reading. - […]
nose rag
[nose rag] {n.}
Handkerchief.
nosh up
[nosh up] {n.}
A feast or large, satisfying meal.
not a leg to stand on
[not a leg to stand on] {n. phr.}, {informal} No good […]
not the only fish in the sea
[not the only fish in the sea] {n. phr.} One of […]
not the only pebble on the beach
[not the only pebble on the beach] {n. phr.} Not the […]
not the thing
[not the thing] {n. phr.} Not the accepted form of action; […]
number one
[number one] (1) or [Number One] (1) {n. phr.}, {informal} Yourself; […]
nut
[nut] {n.}
1. Head.
2. Eccentric person.
nut case
[nut case] {n. phr.} A very silly, crazy, or foolish person. […]
nutcase
[nutcase] {n.}
An insane person.
nuthouse
[nuthouse] {n.}
A lunatic asylum.
nuts and bolts of
[nuts and bolts of] {n. phr.} The basic facts or important […]
nutter
[nutter] {n.}
Insane person.
odd jobs
[odd jobs] {n. phr.} Work that is not steady or regular […]
oddball
[oddball] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} An eccentric person; one who doesn't act […]
odds and ends
[odds and ends] {n. phr.} Miscellaneous items; remnants. * /After the […]
odds and sods
[odds and sods] {n.} Substitute for '[odds and ends]'. Miscellaneous items […]
off day
[off day] {n. phr.} A period when one is not functioning […]
offshoot
[offshoot] {n.} A derivative; a side product. * /The discovery of […]
oik
[oik] {n.}
Someone of a low social standing (derogatory).
old bill, the old bill
[old bill] or [the old bill] {n.} A policeman or the […]
old boy
[old boy] or [old chap] {n.}, {chiefly British} One of the […]
old boy network
[old boy network] {n. phr.} A system whereby men who went […]
old college try
[old college try] {n. phr.} An attempt to win a favor […]
old country
[old country] {n. phr.} Primarily Europe, but also any country other […]
old flame
[old flame] {n. phr.} An erstwhile lover. * /Did you know […]
old guard
[old guard] {n. phr.} People whose ideas may be out of […]
old hand
[old hand] {n. phr.} An experienced and highly skilled expert at […]
old maid
[old maid] {n. phr.} A spinster; a woman who has never […]
old story
[old story] {n.} An everyday occurrence; something that often happens. * […]
old world
[old world] {n. phr.} Europe, the continent; a continental manner. * […]
old-timer
[old-timer] {n.} An old person who remembers bygone days, matters, and […]
olive branch
[olive branch] {n. phr.} An overture; a symbol of peace. * […]
once-over
[once-over] {n.}, {slang} 1. A quick look; a swift examination of […]
one damn thing after another
[one damn thing after another] or [ODTAA] (pronounced owed-tay) {n. phr.} […]
one foot in the grave
[one foot in the grave] {n. phr.} Near to death. * […]
one on the city
[one on the city] {n.}, {slang} A glass of water (which […]
one's money's worth
[one's money's worth] {n. phr.} A fair return on one's money […]
one-armed bandit
[one-armed bandit] {n.}, {slang} A slot machine, like those used in […]
one-night stand
[one-night stand] {n. phr.} 1. A single performance given by a […]
one-two
[one-two] {n.} 1. A succession of two punches, the first a […]
open heart
[open heart] {n.} 1. No hiding of your feelings; frankness; freedom. […]
open letter
[open letter] {n. phr.} A public message in the form of […]
open market
[open market] {n. phr.} Goods or securities available for purchase by […]
open marriage
[open marriage] {n. phr.} An arrangement by mutual agreement between husband […]
open one's eyes
[open one's eyes] or [open up one's eyes] {v. phr.} To […]
open question
[open question] {n. phr.} A debatable issue. * /Whether assisted suicide […]
open secret
[open secret] {n.} Something that is supposed to be a secret […]
open sesame
[open sesame] {n. phr.}, {literary} Immediate means of entrance, or unobstructed […]
open shop
[open shop] {n. phr.} A factory or firm that employs both […]
open-door policy
[open-door policy] {n. phr.} A policy that states that newcomers are […]
opposite number
[opposite number] {n. phr.} A person occupying the same position as […]
opposite sex
[opposite sex] {n. phr.} The sex different from the one being […]
optional origin
[optional origin] {n.} Stipulation in international commodities contract whereby the seller […]
other fish to fry
[other fish to fry] {n. phr.}, {informal} Other things to do; […]
out-of-pocket expenses
[out-of-pocket expenses] {n. phr.} Expenses one has to pay for oneself, […]
outback
[outback] {n.} 1. The remote and uncultivated wilderness areas of Australia […]
outer space
[outer space] {n.} What is outside of the earth's air. * […]
overhead
[overhead] {n.} Expenses incurred in the upkeep of one's plant and […]
pack of lies
[pack of lies] {n. phr.} An unbelievable story; unprovable allegations. * […]
pack rat
[pack rat] {n.}, {informal} A person who cannot part with old, […]
packet
[packet] {n.} 1. A large sum of money (earn a packet). […]
Paddy
[Paddy] {n.}
(capitalised) An Irishman (derogatory).
paddy wagon
[paddy wagon] {n.}, {informal} A police van used for transporting prisoners […]
pain in the ass
[pain in the ass] or [pain in the neck] {n.}, {slang}, […]
Paki
[Paki] {n.} (Derogatory, offensive) A Pakistani or sometimes used to loosely […]
Paki-bashing
[Paki-bashing] {n.}
Unprovoked attacks on Pakastanis living in Britain.
pan gravy
[pan gravy] {n.} Gravy made with meat drippings with seasoning and […]
Pandoras box
[Pandora's box] {n. phr.}, {literary} A thing or problem that, if […]
pansy
[pansy] {n.}
An effeminite or homosexual male.
par for the course
[par for the course] {n. phr.}, {informal} Just what was expected; […]
parade rest
[parade rest] {n.} A position in which soldiers stand still, with […]
parallel bars
[parallel bars] {n.} Two horizontal bars the same distance apart, that […]
parliamentary law
[parliamentary law] {n.} The rules for legislative or other meetings. * […]
part and parcel
[part and parcel] {n. phr.} A necessary or important part; something […]
part of the furniture
[part of the furniture] {n. phr.} In a job or position […]
parting of the ways
[parting of the ways] {n. phr.} 1. The point where a […]
party animal
[party animal] {n. phr.} 1. A person who loves parties. * […]
party line
[party line] {n. phr.} Ideas, policies, and goals set forth by […]
pass the buck
[pass the buck] {v. phr.}, {informal} To make another person decide […]
passed ball
[passed ball] {n.} A pitched baseball missed by the catcher when […]
past master
[past master] {n. phr.} An expert. * /Alan wins so often […]
pasting
[pasting] {n.}
A sound thrashing or heavy defeat.
pat on the back
[pat on the back] (2) {n. phr.} 1. An encouraging tap […]
pat-a-cake
[pat-a-cake] {n.} A clapping game that keeps time to a nursery […]
pay dirt
[pay dirt] {n.}, {slang} 1. The dirt in which much gold […]
payoff
[payoff] {n.} Culmination point; climax. * /After many months of patient […]
pecking order
[pecking order] {n.} The way people are ranked in relation to […]
peeping Tom
[peeping Tom] {n.} A man or boy who likes sly peeping. […]
pen pal
[pen pal] {n.} A friend who is known to someone through […]
penalty box
[penalty box] {n.} A place where penalized hockey players are required […]
penny-dreadful
[penny-dreadful] {n.}
A cheap, sensationalist magazine.
pennyboy
[pennyboy] {n.} A low paid person, employed to carry out menial […]
pep talk
[pep talk] {n.}, {informal} A speech that makes people feel good […]
pet name
[pet name] {n. phr.} A special or abbreviated name indicating affection. […]
phiz or phizog
[phiz or phizog] {n.} The face (from a 17th century colloquial […]
photo finish
[photo finish] {n. phr.} A close finish in a race of […]
pick-me-up
[pick-me-up] {n. phr.} Something you take when you feel tired or […]
pickpocket
[pickpocket] {n.} A thief; a petty criminal who steals things and […]
pickup
[pickup] {n.}, (stress on "pick") 1. A rugged, small truck. * […]
Pidgin English
[Pidgin English] {n. phr.} A jargon that consists of some mispronounced […]
pie in the sky
[pie in the sky] {n. phr.}, {informal} An unrealistic wish or […]
piecework
[piecework] {n.} Work paid for in accordance with the quantity produced. […]
pig
[pig] {n.}
(Derogatory, offensive) Policeman.
pig in a poke
[pig in a poke] {n. phr.} An unseen bargain; something accepted […]
pig's ear
[pig's ear] {n.} 1. Beer (Cockney rhyming slang). 2. Something that […]
pigeonhole
[pigeonhole] {n.} 1. Small compartment for internal mail in an office […]
piggy bank
[piggy bank] {n.} A small bank, sometimes in the shape of […]
pikey
[pikey] {n.} Pejorative term used, mainly in England to refer to […]
pile-up
[pile-up] {n.} 1. A heap; a deposit of one object on […]
pillar of society
[pillar of society] {n. phr.} A leading figure who contributes to […]
pillock
[pillock] {n.}
Stupid or annoying person.
pin curl
[pin curl] {n.} A curl made with a hair clip or […]
pin money
[pin money] {n. phr.} Extra money used for incidentals. * /She […]
pinch
[pinch] {n.} {v.} 1. (verb) Steal or take without asking. 2. […]
pinch pennies
[pinch pennies] {v. phr.}, {informal} Not spend a penny more than […]
pinch-hit
[pinch-hit] {v.} 1. To substitute for another player at bat in […]
pip-squeak
[pip-squeak] {n.}, {informal} A small, unimportant person. * /If the club […]
pipe dream
[pipe dream] {n.}, {informal} An unrealizable, financially unsound, wishful way of […]
plain
[plain] or [smooth sailing] {n. phr.} An uncomplicated, unhampered, or easy […]
plain Jane
[plain Jane] {n. phr.} A common or simple looking young woman […]
plain white wrapper
[plain white wrapper] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} Unmarked police […]
platonic love
[platonic love] {n. phr.} Great affection toward another person without sex. […]
plonker
[plonker] {n.} 1. Something large or substantial (Mid 19th C). 2. […]
point of view
[point of view] {n.} Attitude; opinion. * /From the American point […]
polish the apple
[polish the apple] {v. phr.}, {slang} To try to make someone […]
pony
[pony] {n.}
£25 (18th C).
pop fly
[pop fly] {n.} A baseball batted high into the air but […]
porkies
[porkies] {n.}
Lies (from the Cockney rhyming slang pork pies)
port of call
[port of call] {n. phr.} 1. Any of the ports that […]
port of entry
[port of entry] {n. phr.} 1. A port where things brought […]
potboiler
[potboiler] {n.} A book, play, or film written for the primary […]
potshot
[potshot] {n.} A direct shot at an easy, stationary target from […]
pound of flesh
[pound of flesh] {n. phr.}, {literary} The maximum payment authorized by […]
powder room
[powder room] {n.} The ladies' rest room. * /When they got […]
power behind the throne
[power behind the throne] {n. phr.} The person with the real […]
presence of mind
[presence of mind] {n. phr.} Effective and quick decision-making ability in […]
press box
[press box] {n.} The place or room high in a sports […]
press conference
[press conference] {n. phr.} A meeting with news reporters. * /The […]
pressure group
[pressure group] {n. phr.} An organization whose goal it is to […]
pretty penny
[pretty penny] {n. phr.} A large amount of money. * /Their […]
price on one's head
[price on one's head] {n. phr.} Reward offered to anyone who […]
private eye
[private eye] {n.}, {colloquial} A private investigator; a detective. * /Buddy […]
public enemy
[public enemy] {n. phr.} A famous criminal. * /Al Capone of […]
public speaker
[public speaker] {n.} A person who speaks to the public. * […]
public-address system
[public-address system] {n.} A set of devices for making a speaker's […]
pull date
[pull date] {n.}, {informal} The date stamped on baked goods, dairy […]
pull one's leg
[pull one's leg] {v. phr.}, {informal} To get someone to accept […]
pull strings
[pull strings] or [pull wires] {v. phr.}, {informal} To secretly use […]
pullout
[pullout] {n.} An evacuation. * /The pullout of the American military […]
punter
[punter] {n.} 1. Customer, patron. 2. Gambler (one who takes a […]
puppy love
[puppy love] also [calf love] {n.}, {informal} The first love of […]
purse strings
[purse strings] {n.} Care or control of money. * /Dad holds […]
push-up
[push-up] {n.} An exercise to build strong arms and shoulders, in […]
pushover
[pushover] {n.} 1. Something easy to accomplish or overcome. * /For […]
put-on
[put-on] {n.} An act of teasing; the playing of a practical […]
putdown
[putdown] {n.} An insult. * /It was a nasty putdown when […]
quarterback sneak
[quarterback sneak] {n.} A football play in which the quarterback takes […]
queer fish
[queer fish] {n.} A strange or unusual person who does odd […]
Queer Street
[Queer Street] {n.}
A difficult or odd situation (up Queer Street).
quick study
[quick study] {n. phr.} One who acquires new skills and habits […]
quim
[quim] {n.} Vagina (possibly a play on the Celtic word for […]
quite a few
[quite a few] or [quite a number] also {formal} [not a […]
quite a little
[quite a little] or {informal} [quite a bit] also {formal} [not […]
quite the thing
[quite the thing] {n. phr.} The socially proper thing to do. […]
rack and ruin
[rack and ruin] {n. phr.} Complete decay; condition of decline. * […]
radio ham
[radio ham] {n. phr.} Someone whose hobby is the operating of […]
rag doll
[rag doll] {n.} A doll made of cloth and filled with […]
rag trade
[rag trade] {n. phr.} The clothing industry. * /My brother is […]
rain check
[rain check] {n.} 1. A special free ticket to another game […]
rainy day
[rainy day] {n.} A time of need; especially: a time when […]
rank and file
[rank and file] {n. phr.} Ordinary people; the regular membership of […]
rat race
[rat race] {n.}, {slang} A very confusing, crowded, or disorderly rush; […]
raw deal
[raw deal] {n. phr.} Unfair treatment; inequity. * /Barry got a […]
razzle-dazzle
[razzle-dazzle] {n.}, {slang} Fancy display; showing off. * /He is such […]
read one's mind
[read one's mind] {v. phr.} To know what someone else is […]
ready money
[ready money] {n. phr.} Cash on hand. * /Frank refuses to […]
rear end
[rear end] {n.} 1. The back part (usually of a vehicle) […]
red cent
[red cent] {n. phr.} The one-cent coin; a copper coin; very […]
red eye
[red eye] {n. phr.}, {informal} A night flight. * /The company […]
red herring
[red herring] {n. phr.} A false scent laid down in order […]
red tape
[red tape] {n. phr.} Unnecessary bureaucratic routine; needless but official delays. […]
red-letter day
[red-letter day] {n. phr.} A holiday; memorable day (usually printed in […]
red-light district
[red-light district] {n. phr.} A district of brothels or where prostitutes […]
redcap
[redcap] {n.} A porter at an airport or at a railroad […]
regular guy
[regular guy] or [regular fellow] {n.}, {informal} A friendly person who […]
rest room
[rest room] {n.} A room or series of rooms in a […]
rhyme or reason
[rhyme or reason] {n. phr.} A good plan or reason; a […]
Richard the Third
[Richard the Third] {n.} A piece of excrement (rhyming slang Richard […]
right field
[right field] {n.} The part of a baseball outfield to the […]
ring
[ring] {n.}
Anal sphincter
ringburner
[ringburner] {n.}
1. A curry.
2. Diarrhoea or painful defecation.
ringleader
[ringleader] {n. phr.} The chief of an unsavory group; a higher-up. […]
rip-off
[rip-off] {n.}, {slang} (Stress on "rip") An act of stealing or […]
road gang
[road gang] {n.} A group of men who work at road […]
road hog
[road hog] {n.}, {informal} A car driver who takes more than […]
road show
[road show] {n.} A theatrical play that is performed for a […]
road sign
[road sign] {n.} A sign on which there is information about […]
road test
[road test] {n.} 1. A test to see if you can […]
roasting ear
[roasting ear] {n.} An ear of corn young and tender enough […]
rob the cradle
[rob the cradle] {v. phr.}, {informal} To have dates with or […]
rock hound
[rock hound] {n.}, {slang} A person who studies and collects rocks […]
rock'n'roll
[rock'n'roll] or [rock and roll] {n.} A style of popular music […]
rock-bottom
[rock-bottom] {n.} The lowest possible point. * /The nation's morale hit […]
Roman collar
[Roman collar] {n.} The high, plain, white collar worn by priests […]
room and board
[room and board] {n. phr.} A room for rent with meals […]
room clerk
[room clerk] or [desk clerk] {n.} A person who is responsible […]
room service
[room service] {n.} Service provided to hotel guests in their rooms. […]
rotten egg
[rotten egg] {n.}, {informal} A person whose character or way of […]
rough-and-tumble
[rough-and-tumble] 1. {n.} Very rough, hard fighting or arguing that does […]
roughhouse
[roughhouse] {n.} Riotous play or commotion. * /? told the boys […]
roughneck
[roughneck] {n.} A low, coarse fellow. * /The only boys in […]
round robin
[round robin] {n. phr.} 1. Something written, especially a request or […]
round trip
[round trip] {n.} A return trip; passage to a place and […]
roundup
[roundup] {n.} A muster; an inspection; a gathering together. * /The […]
royal road
[royal road] {n. phr.} A quick means of accomplishment; an easy […]
rozzer
[rozzer] {n.}
Policeman.
rub-a-dub
[rub-a-dub] {n.} The sound made by beating a drum. * /We […]
rubber check
[rubber check] {n.}, {informal} A check written without enough money in […]
rubdown
[rubdown] {n.} A massage. * /The chiropractor gave his patient a […]
rule of thumb
[rule of thumb] {n. phr.} A simple and practical method that […]
run for one's money
[run for one's money] {n. phr.} 1. A good fight; a […]
run of luck
[run of luck] {n. phr.} A period of good luck. * […]
run-in
[run-in] {n.} 1. A traffic accident. * /My car was wrecked […]
run-off
[run-off] {n.} A second election held to determine the winner when […]
runner-up
[runner-up] {n.} The person who finishes second in a race or […]
running commentary
[running commentary] {n. phr.} A continual series of remarks. * /My […]
running start
[running start] {n. phr.} Good progress at the beginning. * /The […]
Russian roulette
[Russian roulette] {n.} A game of chance in which one bullet […]
saber rattling
[saber rattling] or [sword rattling] {n.} A show of military strength […]
sacred cow
[sacred cow] {n.} A person or thing that is never criticized, […]
sacrifice fly
[sacrifice fly] {n.} A baseball hit high in the air that […]
saddle shoe
[saddle shoe] {n.} A white shoe with a black or brown […]
safety blitz
[safety blitz] {n.} A defensive play in football in which the […]
safety glass
[safety glass] {n.} Two panes of glass with a sheet of […]
safety in numbers
[safety in numbers] {n. phr.} Protection against trouble by being in […]
safety island
[safety island] or [safety zone] {n.} A raised area in a […]
sailor collar
[sailor collar] {n.} A large square collar like those worn by […]
salad days
[salad days] {n. phr.}, {informal} The period of one's youth; a […]
sales check
[sales check] or [sales slip] {n.} A paper which the clerk […]
sales talk
[sales talk] {n.} A speech made to point out all the […]
Salisbury steak
[Salisbury steak] {n.} A broiled or fried hamburger patty sometimes containing […]
salt of the earth
[salt of the earth] {n. phr.}, {informal} One who helps to […]
salt pork
[salt pork] {n.} Very fat pork that has been packed in […]
sand lot
[sand lot] {n.} A field, vacant lot, or other open place […]
sand trap
[sand trap] {n.} A low place on a golf course that […]
sandwich board
[sandwich board] {n.} Two advertising signs worn by a man, one […]
save face
[save face] {v. phr.} To save your good reputation, popularity, or […]
saving grace
[saving grace] {n. phr.} A single good attribute; a redeeming quality. […]
savings account
[savings account] {n.} An account in a bank, where people put […]
savings bond
[savings bond] {n.} A government certificate given for money and saved […]
savvy
[savvy] {n.}
Knowledge, understanding (from the French, savoir).
say-so
[say-so] {n.} Approval; permission; word. * /Father got angry because I […]
scally
[scally] {n.}
A hooligan youth (Scouse), short for scallywag.
scandal sheet
[scandal sheet] {n.} A newspaper that prints much shocking news and […]
school of hard knocks
[school of hard knocks] {n. phr.} Life outside of school or […]
scotch broth
[scotch broth] {n.} A thick barley soup with vegetables and mutton […]
Scouser
[Scouser] {n.}
Someone from Liverpool.
screen test
[screen test] {n.} A short movie made to see if an […]
screw-up
[screw-up] {n.} A mistake; an error; a confusing mess. * /"What […]
scrote
[scrote] {n.}
Term of abuse, from scrotum.
scrubber
[scrubber] {n.} In Britain, a promiscuous woman; in Ireland, a common […]
sea legs
[sea legs] {n. phr.} 1. Adjustment to being in a boat […]
search one's heart
[search one's heart] or [search one's soul] {v. phr.}, {formal} To […]
seat belt
[seat belt] {n.} A strong strap used to protect a person […]
second best
[second best] {n.} Something that is lower than or not quite […]
second childhood
[second childhood] {n. phr.} Senility; dotage. * /"Grandpa is in his […]
second class
[second class] {n.} 1. The second best or highest group; the […]
second cousin
[second cousin] {n.} A child of your father's or mother's first […]
second nature
[second nature] {n.} Something done without any special effort, as if […]
second sight
[second sight] {n. phr.} Intuition; prescience; clairvoyance. * /Some police departments […]
second thought
[second thought] {n.} A change of ideas or opinions resulting from […]
second wind
[second wind] also [second breath] {n.} 1. The easier breathing that […]
section gang
[section gang] or [section crew] {n.} A group of railroad workers […]
section hand
[section hand] {n.} A worker who repairs railway track; one of […]
security blanket
[security blanket] {n.}, {slang}, {colloquial} An idea, person, or object that […]
seed money
[seed money] {n. phr.} A small grant or donation for others […]
sellout
[sellout] {n.} 1. A betrayal or act of treason. * /The […]
send-off
[send-off] {n. phr.} A demonstration of affection or respect at someone's […]
senior citizen
[senior citizen] {n.} An older person, often one who has retired […]
set of new threads
[set of new threads] {n. phr.} New men's suit. * /"Nice […]
set the pace
[set the pace] {v. phr.} To decide on a rate of […]
setback
[setback] {n.} A disadvantage; a delay. * /We suffered a major […]
setup
[setup] {n. phr.} (stress on "set") 1. Arrangement, management, circumstances. * […]
seventh heaven
[seventh heaven] {n. phr.}, {literary} The pinnacle of happiness. * /We […]
sexual harassment
[sexual harassment] {n. phr.} The act of constantly making unwanted advances […]
shag
[shag] {n.}
Sexual intercourse.
shaggy dog (story)
[shaggy dog (story)] {n. phr.} A special kind of joke whose […]
shake-up
[shake-up] {n.} A change; a reorganization. * /After the scandal there […]
shakedown
[shakedown] {n.} 1. A test. * /Let's take the new car […]
sheepskin
[sheepskin] {n.} Diploma. * /Dr. Miller has half a dozen different […]
shiner
[shiner] {n.}
Black eye.
shitehawk
[shitehawk] {n.}
Someone of little worth, originally military slang.
shoestring catch
[shoestring catch] {n.} A catch of a hit baseball just before […]
shoo-in
[shoo-in] {n.}, {informal} Someone or something that is expected to win; […]
shoot straight
[shoot straight] or [shoot square] {v.}, {informal} To act fairly; deal […]
shoplifter
[shoplifter] {n.} A thief who steals things from a store. * […]
shopping center
[shopping center] {n.} A place usually for neighborhood shopping, where there […]
shore leave
[shore leave] {n.} Permission given to a man in the Navy […]
shore patrol
[shore patrol] {n.} The police of a navy. * /The sailors […]
short end
[short end] {n.} The worst or most unpleasant part. * /The […]
short haul
[short haul] {n.} A short distance; a short trip. * /The […]
short shrift
[short shrift] {n.} Little or no attention. - Usually used with […]
short-order cook
[short-order cook] {n.} A person who prepares food that cooks quickly. […]
shortcut
[shortcut] {n.} A road shorter than the one that people normally […]
shot in the arm
[shot in the arm] {n. phr.}, {informal} Something inspiring or encouraging. […]
shot in the dark
[shot in the dark] {n. phr.} An attempt without much hope […]
shoulder to cry on
[shoulder to cry on] or [to lean on] {n. phr.} A […]
show of hands
[show of hands] {n. phr.} An open vote during a meeting […]
showdown
[showdown] {n.} A final challenge or confrontation during which both sides […]
showgirl
[showgirl] {n.} One who works as an entertainer in a bar […]
showoff
[showoff] {n.} A boastful person. * /Jim always has to be […]
shut-eye
[shut-eye] {n.}, {slang} Sleep. * /It's very late. We'd better get […]
side street
[side street] {n.} A street that runs into and ends at […]
sidekick
[sidekick] {n.} A companion; a close friend of lesser status. * […]
sight for sore eyes
[sight for sore eyes] {n. phr.}, {informal} A welcome sight. * […]
sign of the times
[sign of the times] {n. phr.} A characteristic of the times […]
silent majority
[silent majority] {n.}, {informal} The large majority of people who, unlike […]
silver anniversary
[silver anniversary] or [wedding] {n. phr.} The twenty-fifth wedding anniversary of […]
Simon Legree
[Simon Legree] {n.}, {informal} A strict person, especially a boss, who […]
sit-up
[sit-up] {n.} A vigorous exercise in which the abdominal muscles are […]
six bits
[six bits] {n.}, {slang} Seventy-five cents. * /"Lend me six bits […]
six of one and half-a-dozen of the other
[six of one and half-a-dozen of the other] {n. phr.} Two […]
skating rink
[skating rink] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} Slippery road. * […]
skeleton in the closet
[skeleton in the closet] {n. phr.} A shameful secret; someone or […]
skid lid
[skid lid] {n.}, {slang} A crash helmet worn by motorcyclists and […]
skid row
[skid row] {n.} The poor part of a city where men […]
skin and bones
[skin and bones] {n.} A person or animal that is very […]
skin off one's nose
[skin off one's nose] {n. phr.}, {slang} Matter of interest, concern, […]
slag off
[slag off] {n.} {v.}
A verbal attack. To criticise or slander.
slap in the face
[slap in the face] (1) {n.} An insult; a disappointment. * […]
slap-head
[slap-head] {n.} {adj.}
A bald man.
slapper
[slapper] {n.}
Promiscuous woman or prostitute.
slave driver
[slave driver] {n.} A cruel, merciless boss or employer who makes […]
slinging match
[slinging match] {n. phr.} A loud, angry quarrel. * /The debate […]
slip of the pen
[slip of the pen] {n. phr.} The mistake of writing something […]
slip of the tongue
[slip of the tongue] also [slip of the lip] {n. phr.} […]
slipup
[slipup] {n.} A mistake. * /"I'm sorry, sir. That was an […]
slow burn
[slow burn] {n.}, {informal} A slowly increasing feeling of anger. * […]
slowdown
[slowdown] {n.} A period of lesser activity, usually in the economic […]
small
[small] or [wee hours] {n. phr.} The very early hours of […]
small fry
[small fry] {n.} 1. Young children. * /In the park, a […]
small talk
[small talk] {n. phr.} General idle conversation. * /At the party […]
smash hit
[smash hit] {n.}, {informal} A very successful play, movie or opera. […]
smoke screen
[smoke screen] {n. phr.} A camouflage; a veil; something used to […]
smoke-out
[smoke-out] {n.} A successful conclusion of an act of investigative journalism […]
Smokey Bear
[Smokey Bear] or [Smokey-the-Bear] or [the Smokies] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band […]
snail's pace
[snail's pace] {n.} A very slow movement forward. * /Time moved […]
snake in the grass
[snake in the grass] {n. phr.}, {informal} A person who cannot […]
snapshot
[snapshot] {n.} A small photograph, unlike a professional portrait. * /We […]
snog
[snog] {n.} French kiss, or any prolonged physical intimacy without undressing […]
snow job
[snow job] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. Insincere or exaggerated talk designed […]
so-and-so
[so-and-so] (2) {n.}, {informal} A person of a special kind and […]
soap opera
[soap opera] {n. phr.} Radio or television serialized stories of a […]
sob story
[sob story] {n.} A story that makes you feel pity or […]
social climber
[social climber] {n.} A person who tries to mix with rich […]
sod
[sod] {n.}
Annoying person or thing (from sodomite).
soda jerk
[soda jerk] or [soda jerker] {n.}, {informal} A person who serves […]
soft drink
[soft drink] {n. phr.} A nonalcoholic beverage such as 7-Up, Coca-Cola, […]
soft touch
[soft touch] {n.} A person with a sympathetic disposition from whom […]
something else again
[something else again] {n. phr.} A different kind of thing; something […]
son of a bitch
[son of a bitch] or [sunuvabitch] also [S.O.B.] {n. phr.}, {vulgar}, […]
son of a gun
[son of a gun] {n. phr.}, {slang} 1. A bad person; […]
song and dance
[song and dance] {n.}, {informal} 1. Foolish or uninteresting talk; dull […]
sonic boom
[sonic boom] {n.} A loud noise and vibration in the air, […]
sore spot
[sore spot] or [sore point] {n.} A weak or sensitive part; […]
sound effects
[sound effects] {n.} The noises made to imitate real sounds in […]
sound sheet
[sound sheet] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} A thin low-quality phonograph recording frequently […]
sound truck
[sound truck] {n. phr.} A truck equipped with loudspeakers. * /During […]
space probe
[space probe] {n.}, {Space English} An unmanned spacecraft other than an […]
speakeasy
[speakeasy] {n.} A bar during Prohibition where illegal alcoholic beverages were […]
speed trap
[speed trap] {n.} A place where police hide and wait to […]
spending money
[spending money] or [pocket money] {n.} Money that is given to […]
spinoff
[spinoff] {n.} A byproduct of something else. * /The television soap […]
spitting image
[spitting image] {n.} or [spit and image] {informal} An exact likeness; […]
split end
[split end] {n.} An end in football who plays five to […]
split second
[split second] {n.} A very short time; less than a second. […]
split ticket
[split ticket] {n.} A vote for candidates from more than one […]
split-up
[split-up] {n.} A separation or division into two or many smaller […]
sponge bath
[sponge bath] {n.} A bath with a cloth or sponge and […]
sporting blood
[sporting blood] {n.} Willingness to take risks; spirit of adventure. * […]
spot check
[spot check] {n. phr.} A sample check or investigation. * /Internal […]
spring chicken
[spring chicken] {n.}, {slang} A young person. - Usually used with […]
spunk
[spunk] {v.} {n.}
1. Semen, ejaculate.
2. Courage, bravery.
square deal
[square deal] {n. phr.} 1. Equitable or fair treatment. * /We […]
square meal
[square meal] {n. phr.} A full, nourishing well-balanced meal. * /The […]
square peg in a round hole
[square peg in a round hole] {n.}, {informal} A person who […]
stab in the back
[stab in the back] (2) {n. phr.}, {slang} An act or […]
stab in the dark
[stab in the dark] {n. phr.} A random attempt or guess […]
stage fright
[stage fright] {n. phr.} The fear one feels before appearing in […]
stage whisper
[stage whisper] {n. phr.} A loud whisper intended to reach other […]
stamping ground
[stamping ground] {n.}, {informal} A place where a person spends much […]
stand a chance
[stand a chance] or [stand a show] {n. phr.} To have […]
standard time
[standard time] also [slow time] {n.} Clock time that is set […]
stare in the face
[stare in the face] {n. phr.} 1. To be about to […]
stars in one's eyes
[stars in one's eyes] {n. phr.} 1. An appearance or feeling […]
stash bag
[stash bag] or [stuff bag] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. A small […]
status symbol
[status symbol] {n. phr.} Signs of wealth and prestige. * /A […]
sterling character
[sterling character] {n. phr.} A person of irreproachable character; one of […]
stick-in-the-mud
[stick-in-the-mud] {n.}, {informal} An overcareful person; someone who is old-fashioned and […]
stick-up
[stick-up] {n.}, {informal} A robbery by a man with a gun. […]
sticky fingers
[sticky fingers] {n. phr.}, {slang} 1. The habit of stealing things […]
still life
[still life] {n. phr.} A term used by artists to describe […]
stock-in-trade
[stock-in-trade] {n. phr.} The materials which one customarily deals, sells, or […]
stool pigeon
[stool pigeon] {n.} A criminal who informs on his associates. * […]
stop street
[stop street] {n.} A street where cars must come to a […]
straight face
[straight face] {n.} A face that is not laughing or smiling. […]
straight ticket
[straight ticket] {n.} A vote for all the candidates of a […]
straw boss
[straw boss] {n.} 1. The boss of a few workers who […]
straw in the wind
[straw in the wind] {n. phr.} A small sign of what […]
straw poll
[straw poll] {n. phr.} An informal survey taken in order to […]
stretch of the imagination
[stretch of the imagination] {n. phr.} Imaginative attempt or effort. * […]
strikebreaker
[strikebreaker] {n.} One who takes the place of workers on strike […]
strong language
[strong language] {n. phr.} Cursing; swearing. * /When Ned learned that […]
stuff and nonsense
[stuff and nonsense] {n.} Foolish or empty writing or talk; nonsense. […]
stuffed shirt
[stuffed shirt] {n. phr.} A pretentious bore; a pompous, empty person. […]
sucker list
[sucker list] {n.}, {slang} A list of easily-fooled people, especially people […]
sugar daddy
[sugar daddy] {n.}, {slang}, {semi-vulgar}, {avoidable} An older, [well-to-do] man, who […]
sum total
[sum total] {n.} The final amount; everything taken together; total. * […]
sunbelt
[sunbelt] {n.}, {informal} A portion of the southern United States where […]
sure thing
[sure thing] 1. {n.}, {informal} Something sure to happen; something about […]
survival of the fittest
[survival of the fittest] {n. phr.} The staying alive or in […]
swan song
[swan song] {n. phr.}, {literary} A farewell or last appearance. * […]
SWAT team
[SWAT team] {n.}, {informal} Police unit trained for especially hazardous or […]
sweet talk
[sweet talk] 1. {n.}, {informal} Too much praise; flattery. * /Sometimes […]
sweet tooth
[sweet tooth] {n. phr.} A great weakness or predilection for sweets. […]
sweetie pie
[sweetie pie] {n.}, {informal} A person who is loved; darling; sweetheart. […]
swelled head
[swelled head] {n.}, {informal} A feeling that you are very important […]
sworn enemies
[sworn enemies] {n. phr.} People or groups or nations that have […]
T-bone steak
[T-bone steak] {n.} A steak with a bone in it which […]
tag end
[tag end] or [tail end] {n.}, {informal} The end, farthest to […]
tail between one's legs
[tail between one's legs] {n. phr.} State of feeling beaten, ashamed, […]
taillight
[taillight] {n.} The rear red light of a car. * /My […]
take one's leave
[take one's leave] or [take leave of] {v. phr.}, {formal} To […]
take-out order
[take-out order] {n. phr.} An order in a restaurant that one […]
takeoff
[takeoff] {n.} 1. Departure of an airplane; the act of becoming […]
talent scout
[talent scout] {n. phr.} A person employed by a large organization […]
talent show
[talent show] {n.} An entertainment in which new entertainers try to […]
talk of the town
[talk of the town] {n. phr.} Something that has become so […]
talking book
[talking book] {n.} A book recorded by voice on phonograph records […]
talking point
[talking point] {n.} Something good about a person or thing that […]
tall story
[tall story] or [tale] {n. phr.}
See: [FISH STORY].
tart
[tart] {n.} Commonly a prostitute or term of abuse but also […]
tax trap
[tax trap] {n.}, {informal} Predicament in which taxpayers in middle-income brackets […]
tearjerker
[tearjerker] {n.} A sentimental novel or movie that makes one cry. […]
tempest in a teapot
[tempest in a teapot] {n. phr.} Great excitement about something not […]
ten gallon hat
[ten gallon hat] {n.}, {informal} A tall felt hat with a […]
tenner
[tenner] {n.}
Ten pounds.
the business
[the business] {n.}, {slang} - Usually used with "give" or "get". […]
the creeps
[the creeps] {n.}, {informal} 1. An uncomfortable tightening of the skin […]
the devil to pay
[the devil to pay] {n. phr.} A severe penalty. * /If […]
the edge
[the edge] {n.}, {informal} The advantage. - Usually used in the […]
the idea
[the idea] or [the very idea] {n. phr.} - Used in […]
the lid
[the lid] {n.}, {slang} Something that holds back or holds out […]
the long and the short
[the long and the short] or [the long and short] {n. […]
the picture
[the picture] {n.} The way things are or were; the facts […]
the pits
[the pits] {n.}, {slang} 1. A low class, blighted and ill-maintained […]
the powers that be
[the powers that be] {n. phr.} Constituted authority; those in power. […]
the ropes
[the ropes] {n. plural}, {informal} Thorough or special knowledge of a […]
the score
[the score] {n.}, {slang} The truth; the real story or information; […]
the three R's
[the three R's] {n. phr.} (W)riting, reading, and (a)rithmetic, the three […]
the ticket
[the ticket] {n.} Exactly what is needed. - Often used with […]
the tracks
[the tracks] {n.} The line between the rich or fashionable part […]
the works
[the works] {n. plural}, {slang} 1. Everything that can be had […]
thing or two
[thing or two] {n. phr.}, {informal} 1. Facts not generally known, […]
think piece
[think piece] {n.}, {slang} 1. The human brain. * /Lou's got […]
think tank
[think tank] {n.} A company of researchers who spend their time […]
third base
[third base] {n.} The base to be touched third in baseball. […]
third class
[third class] {n.} 1. The third best or highest group; the […]
third degree
[third degree] {n. phr.} A method of severe grilling used to […]
third sex
[third sex] {n.}, {euphemism}, {slang}, {informal} Homosexual individuals who are either […]
third world
[third world] {n.} 1. The countries not aligned with either the […]
this and that
[this and that] also [this, that, and the other] {n. phr.} […]
thorn in the flesh
[thorn in the flesh] or [thorn in one's side] {n. phr.} […]
three-ring circus
[three-ring circus] {n.} A scene of much confusion or activity. * […]
through street
[through street] {n.} 1. A street on which cars can move […]
through train
[through train] {n. phr.} A direct train that doesn't necessitate any […]
tidy sum
[tidy sum] {n. phr.} A large amount of money. * /The […]
tie-in
[tie-in] {n.} A connection; a point of meeting. * /John's essay […]
tie-up
[tie-up] {n.} A congestion; a stoppage of the normal flow of […]
tight end
[tight end] {n.} An end in football who plays close to […]
tight money
[tight money] {n. phr.} The opposite of inflation, when money is […]
tight squeeze
[tight squeeze] {n. phr.} A difficult situation; financial troubles. * /The […]
tightwad
[tightwad] {n. phr.} A stingy person. * /My father is such […]
Tijuana taxi
[Tijuana taxi] {n.} {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} A police car. […]
time and a half
[time and a half] {n. phr.} Pay given to a worker […]
time of one's life
[time of one's life] {n. phr.} A very happy or wonderful […]
time off
[time off] {n. phr.} A period of release from work. * […]
time out
[time out] {n. phr.} Time during which a game, a lecture, […]
tin ear
[tin ear] {n. phr.} 1. A lack of sensitivity to noise. […]
Tin Pan Alley
[Tin Pan Alley] {n. phr.} The pop music industry. * /What […]
tit for tat
[tit for tat] {n. phr.} Equal treatment in return; a fair […]
toff
[toff] {n.}
Posh person
toll call
[toll call] {n. phr.} A long distance telephone call for which […]
Tom, Dick, and Harry
[Tom, Dick, and Harry] {n. phr.} People in general; anyone; everyone. […]
ton
[ton] {n.} 1. A large unspecified amount (18th C). 2. £100 […]
tongue twister
[tongue twister] {n.} A word or group of words difficult to […]
tongue-lashing
[tongue-lashing] {n.} A sharp scolding or criticism. * /Jim's mother gave […]
top banana
[top banana] or [top dog] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} The head of […]
tosh
[tosh] {n.}
Nonsense
tosser
[tosser] {n.} 1. Someone who masturbates (to toss off). 2. Someone […]
tosspot
[tosspot] {n.}
Drunkard or habitual drinker (from tossing pots of ale)
touchup
[touchup] {n.} 1. A small repair; a small amount of paint. […]
tough act to follow
[tough act to follow] {n. phr.} A speech, performance, or activity […]
tough cat
[tough cat] {n.}, {slang} A man who is very individualistic and, […]
tough cookie
[tough cookie] {n. phr.} An extremely determined, hardheaded person, or someone […]
tough luck
[tough luck] {n. phr.} An informal way to say that one […]
tough shit
[tough shit] {n. phr.}, {vulgar}, {avoidable} See: [HARD CHEESE], [TOUGH LUCK]. […]
tower of strength
[tower of strength] {n. phr.} Someone who is strong, helpful, and […]
town and gown
[town and gown] {n.} The residents of a college town and […]
trade-in
[trade-in] {n.} Something given as part payment on something better. * […]
trading stamp
[trading stamp] {n.} One of the stamps that you get (as […]
trial and error
[trial and error] {n.} A way of solving problems by trying […]
trial balloon
[trial balloon] {n.} A hint about a plan of action that […]
trick of the trade
[trick of the trade] {n. phr.}, {usually in plural}, {informal} 1. […]
trick or treat
[trick or treat] {n.} The custom of going from house to […]
triple threat
[triple threat] {n.} A football player who is able to pass, […]
trump card
[trump card] {n.} Something kept back to be used to win […]
tryout
[tryout] {n.} An audience at a theater or opera for would-be […]
tube
[tube] {n.} 1. The London Underground (19th C. Originally 'Tuppeny tube'). […]
tug-of-war
[tug-of-war] {n.} 1. A game in which two teams pull on […]
tune-up
[tune-up] {n.} 1. The adjusting or fixing of something (as a […]
turn of the century
[turn of the century] {n. phr.} The time at the end […]
turnout
[turnout] {n.} The number of people in attendance at a gathering. […]
turnover
[turnover] {n.} 1. The proportion of expenditure and income realized in […]
twat
[twat] {n.}
1. Vagina.
2. Term of abuse (from 1.).
two bits
[two bits] {n.}, {slang} Twenty-five cents; a quarter of a dollar. […]
two cents
[two cents] {n.} {informal} 1. Something not important or very small; […]
two strikes against one
[two strikes against one] {n. phr.} From baseball. Two opportunities wasted […]
U.F.O.
[U.F.O.] {n. phr.} Unidentified Flying Object. * /Some people think that […]
ugly duckling
[ugly duckling] {n.} An ugly or plain child who grows up […]
unknown quantity
[unknown quantity] {n.} Someone or something whose value and importance are […]
up front
[up front] (1) {n.}, {slang}, {informal} The managerial section of a […]
upper crust
[upper crust] {n.}, {informal} The richest, most famous, or important people […]
upper hand
[upper hand] or [whip hand] {n.} Controlling power; advantage. * /In […]
upper story
[upper story] {n.} 1. A floor or level of a building […]
ups and downs
[ups and downs] {n. phr.} Vicissitudes; alternating periods between good and […]
urban homesteading
[urban homesteading] {n.}, {informal} Renovation and occupation through cooperative ownership by […]
utility room
[utility room] {n.} A room in a house or building for […]
vanishing cream
[vanishing cream] {n.} A cosmetic cream for the skin that is […]
vanity case
[vanity case] {n.} 1. A small case containing face powder, lipstick, […]
variety show
[variety show] {n.} A program that includes several different kinds of […]
variety store
[variety store] {n.} A store that sells many different kinds of […]
verbal diarrhea
[verbal diarrhea] {n. phr.} The inability to keep silent; over-talkativeness. * […]
vibrations
[vibrations] or [vibes] {n.} Psychic emanations radiating from an object, situation, […]
vicious circle
[vicious circle] {n. phr.} A kind of circular or chain reaction […]
Vietnam syndrome
[Vietnam syndrome] {n.}, {informal} An attitude in government circles that diplomacy […]
visiting nurse
[visiting nurse] {n.} A nurse who goes from home to home […]
voice box
[voice box] {n.} The part of the throat where the sound […]
voiceprint
[voiceprint] {n.}, {technological}, {colloquial} The graphic pattern derived from converting an […]
waiting list
[waiting list] {n.} A list of persons waiting to get into […]
waiting room
[waiting room] {n. phr.} The sitting area in a doctor's, lawyer's, […]
walk of life
[walk of life] {n. phr.} Way of living; manner in which […]
walking dictionary
[walking dictionary] {n. phr.} A person highly knowledgeable in matters of […]
walking encyclopedia
[walking encyclopedia] {n. phr.} A polymath; a person very well versed […]
walking papers
[walking papers] or [walking orders] also [walking ticket] {n.}, {informal} A […]
wallflower
[wallflower] {n.} A girl who has to sit out dances because […]
wank
[wank] {n.} {v.}
1. Masturbation or to masturbate.
2. Inferior.
wanker
[wanker] {n.} 1. Someone who masturbates. 2. Abusive term (from 1.), […]
wanking spanner(s)
[wanking spanner(s)] {n.}
Hand(s).
want ad
[want ad] {n.} A small advertisement on a special page in […]
war baby
[war baby] {n.}, {informal} A person born during a war. * […]
warm the bench
[warm the bench] {v. phr.}, {informal} To act as a substitute […]
warm-up
[warm-up] {n.} A period of exercise or practice in preparation for […]
washout
[washout] {n.} A dismal failure. * /As far as investments were […]
water over the dam
[water over the dam] or [water under the bridge] {n. phr.} […]
watering hole
[watering hole] or [place] {n. phr.} A bar, pub, or nightclub […]
way the wind blows
[way the wind blows] or [how the wind blows] {n. phr.} […]
ways and means
[ways and means] {n. plural} Methods of getting something done or […]
wear and tear
[wear and tear] {n. phr.} Deterioration through use. * /After 75,000 […]
weasel word
[weasel word] {n.}, {informal} A word which has more than one […]
weather eye
[weather eye] {n.} 1. Eyes that can tell what the weather […]
wee folk
[wee folk] or [little folk] or [little people] {n. phr.} Fairy […]
week of Sundays
[week of Sundays] {n. phr.} A long time; seven weeks. * […]
weight of the world on one's shoulders
[weight of the world on one's shoulders] or [world on one's […]
welcome mat
[welcome mat] {n.} 1. A mat for wiping your shoes on, […]
wet blanket
[wet blanket] {n.}, {informal} A person or thing that keeps others […]
what for
[what for] (2) {n. phr.}, {informal} A scolding, or other punishment. […]
what have you
[what have you] or [what not] {n. phr.}, {informal} Whatever you […]
what's what
[what's what] or [what is what] {n. phr.}, {informal} 1. What […]
wheel and deal
[wheel and deal] {v. phr.}, {slang} To make many big plans […]
wheelhorse
[wheelhorse] {n. phr.} A reliable and industrious worker on whom one […]
where the shoe pinches
[where the shoe pinches] {n. phr.}, {informal} Where or what the […]
which is which
[which is which] {n. phr.} Which is one person or thing […]
whipping boy
[whipping boy] {n. phr.} The person who gets punished for someone […]
whispering campaign
[whispering campaign] {n.} The spreading of false rumors, or saying bad […]
whistle-stop
[whistle-stop] {n.} A small town where the trains only stop on […]
white elephant
[white elephant] {n. phr.} Unwanted property, such as real estate, that […]
white lie
[white lie] {n. phr.} An innocent social excuse. * /I am […]
white sale
[white sale] {n.} The selling, especially at lower prices, of goods […]
white-collar workers
[white-collar workers] {n. phr.} Workers employed in offices and at desks […]
whitewash
[whitewash] {n.}, {informal} A soothing official report that attempts to tranquilize […]
whizz
[whizz] {n.} 1. Urination. 2. Amphetamine Sulphate (also known as speed; […]
whodunit
[whodunit] {n.} A detective story; a murder story; a thriller. * […]
whole cheese
[whole cheese] {slang} or {informal} [whole show] {n.}, {informal} The only […]
why and wherefore
[why and wherefore] {n.} The answer to a question or problem. […]
wiener roast
[wiener roast] or [hot dog roast] {n.} A party where frankfurters […]
wild goose chase
[wild goose chase] {n. phr.} An absurd and completely futile errand. […]
wild pitch
[wild pitch] {n.} A pitch in baseball that is so high, […]
wildcat strike
[wildcat strike] {n.}, {informal} A strike not ordered by a labor […]
willy
[willy] {n.}
Penis (hypocorism).
windbag
[windbag] {n.} Someone who talks too much; a boring person. * […]
windfall
[windfall] {n.} An unexpected gift or gain of sizeable proportion. * […]
window dressing
[window dressing] {n. phr.} An elaborate exterior, sometimes designed to conceal […]
winning streak
[winning streak] {n.} A series of several wins one after the […]
wipeout
[wipeout] {n.} A total failure. * /The guy is so bad […]
wise guy
[wise guy] {n. phr.}, {informal} A person who acts as if […]
wisecrack
[wisecrack] {n.} A joke or witty remark usually made at someone […]
witch-hunt
[witch-hunt] {n. phr.} A hysterical movement during which people are persecuted […]
wolf in sheeps clothing
[wolf in sheep's clothing] {n. phr.} A person who pretends to […]
word of mouth
[word of mouth] {n. phr.} Communication by oral rather than written […]
word to the wise
[word to the wise] {n. phr.} A word of warning or […]
words of one syllable
[words of one syllable] {n. phr.} Language that makes the meaning […]
working girl
[working girl] {n.}, {slang} 1. ({vulgar}, {avoidable}) A prostitute. * /I […]
workout
[workout] {n.} A physical exercise session. * /My morning workout consists […]
worrywart
[worrywart] {n. phr.} A person who always worries. * /"Stop being […]
write-off
[write-off] {n.} A loss. * /This last unfortunate business venture of […]
write-up
[write-up] {n.} A report or story in a newspaper or magazine. […]
writers block
[writer's block] {n. phr.} A condition of being unable to write; […]
writers cramp
[writer's cramp] {n.} Pain in the fingers or hand caused by […]
writing
[writing] or [handwriting on the wall] {n. phr.}, {literary} A warning; […]
x-raying machine
[x-raying machine] {n.}, {slang}, {citizen's band radio jargon} Speed detection device […]
yak-yak
[yak-yak] or [yakety-yak] or [yakib-yak] {n.}, {slang} Much talk about little […]
yellow journalism
[yellow journalism] {n. phr.} Cheap and sensational newspaper writing; inflammatory language […]
yeoman service
[yeoman service] {n. phr.} Help in time of need; serviceable and […]
yes-man
[yes-man] {n.}, {informal} A person who tries to be liked by […]
zero hour
[zero hour] {n.} 1. The exact time when an attack or […]
zone defense
[zone defense] {n.} A defense in a sport (as basketball or […]