Category: Phrases

Are you looking for a way to describe someone that appears friendly and nice but you suspect could have devious intentions? If so, you could describe them as a "wolf in sheep's clothing." This post unpacks everything you need to know about the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning A "wolf in sheep's clothing" […]

Are you looking for a way to tell someone that their behavior is unacceptable and outside the norm of what is reasonable? If that's the case, you could use the expression "beyond the pale." Meaning The meaning of the expression, "beyond the pale," is to describe the appalling actions of others. It's a description that […]

Did your parents ever sing you nursery rhymes? If so, you probably heard the popular "pop goes the weasel" rhyme throughout your youth. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this popular kids' rhyme. Meaning "Pop goes the weasel" is the name of a popular children's rhyme. The original version of the song from […]

Are you looking for a way to tell someone a secret without blowing your source? If so, you could use the phrase “I heard it through the grapevine” when someone asks you where you got the information. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of the expression. Meaning “I heard it through the grapevine” is […]

Are you looking for a way to compliment someone that brings you inspiration? If so, you could tell them, “you’re my muse.” This post unpacks everything you need to know about the origin and meaning of this expression. Meaning If you tell someone “you’re my muse,” you’re letting them know that they give you creative […]

Are you wondering where the term "fuzzy wuzzies" comes from? It's not as innocent as you might think. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The meaning of the term "fuzzy wuzzies" is a racist description of a black person. African American people have different hair to Caucasians and Latin-Americans. As […]

Are you looking for a way to motivate people into seizing the day? You could always use the phrase, “Carpe Diem.” This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The meaning of “Carpe Diem” is “seize the day.” It’s a popular phrase, brought back into everyday use through the movie “Dead Poets […]

Did you forget your phone at home? If so, you could exclaim, "fiddlesticks," at your inability to remember something so simple. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression. Meaning The word "fiddlesticks" has two meanings. First, it's an exclamation of surprise at someone or something disappointing you. Instead of swearing or using […]

Are you looking for a way to call someone a coward? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of the expression "yellow belly." Meaning The expression "yellow-belly" refers to someone displaying cowardice. The saying applies to people and animals. For instance, your friends could be scared to take a dare, or your dog may appear […]

Are you looking for a word to describe an energetic young person? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of the word "whippersnapper." Meaning The expression "whippersnapper" refers to a young person, usually ten years or younger. Typically, seniors will use this phrase to describe young people with high energy that cause problems for them. […]