Where does the phrase shoot yourself in the foot come from?

The phrase comes from a phenomenon that became fairly common during the First World War. Soldiers sometimes shot themselves in the foot in order to be sent to the hospital tent rather than being sent into battle. Obviously, these soldiers claimed to have shot themselves accidentally.

What does the phrase shot in the arm mean?

A stimulus or booster, something vitalizing or encouraging, as in Getting a new concertmaster was a real shot in the arm for the orchestra. This colloquial expression alludes to a stimulant given by injection. [

What is the meaning of got wind of?

Learn of; hear a rumor about. For example, “If my old aunt gets wind of it, she’ll cut me off with a shilling” (William Makepeace Thackeray, in Paris Sketch Book, 1840). This expression alludes to an animal perceiving a scent carried by the wind. [

What is the meaning of reel under?

reel under (something) To struggle to walk or remain upright due to the weight of something. I was happy about the promotion at first, but I have to admit that I’m reeling a bit under the weight of all these responsibilities. I could see that she was reeling under having to make such a difficult decision.

What does bring down the curtain mean?

Definition of bring down the curtain on : to bring an end to (something, such as a career) His injury brought the curtain down on his remarkable sports career.

What is over his head?

to be involved in a difficult situation that you cannot get out of: Sean tried to pay his gambling debts, but he was in over his head.

What is under the thumb?

: under someone’s control or influence He kept the employees under his thumb.

What does it mean to railing someone?

: to revile or scold in harsh, insolent, or abusive language.

What does left reeling mean?

If you are reeling from a shock, you are feeling extremely surprised or upset because of it. I’m still reeling from the shock of hearing about it. Synonyms: be shaken, be shocked, be stunned, be staggered More Synonyms of reel.

What is the meaning of led up?

led up; leading up; leads up. Definition of lead up (Entry 2 of 2) intransitive verb. 1 : to prepare the way. 2 : to make a gradual or indirect approach to a topic.

What does flipped mean?

: to hold up the middle finger as an obscene gesture of contempt to flipped off the other driver.