[get to first base] or [reach first base] {v. phr.} To make a good start; really begin; succeed, * /Joe had a long paper to write for history class, but […] A Dictionary of American Idioms

make out

[make out] {v.} 1. To write the facts asked for (as in an application blank or a report form); fill out. * /The teacher made out the report cards and […] A Dictionary of American Idioms

tell a thing or two

[tell a thing or two] {v. phr.}, {informal} To tell in plain or angry words; scold. * /When John complained about the hard work, his father told him a thing […] A Dictionary of American Idioms

half-and-half

[half-and-half] (1) {adj.} As much one thing as the other. * /We asked the coach if more boys than girls were interested in debating, and he said it was about […] A Dictionary of American Idioms

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into effect

[into effect] {adv. phr.} Into use or operation. * /The new rule was put into effect at once./ * /The judge ordered the old […]

skin and bones

[skin and bones] {n.} A person or animal that is very thin; someone very skinny. * /The puppy is healthy now, but when we […]

Irish curse

May she marry a ghost and bear him a kitten, and may the high king of glory permit it to get mange.

American Idioms

A starting point to explore free video lessons on American idioms.

corn ball

[corn ball] {n.}, {slang}, {informal} 1. A superficially sentimental movie or musical in which the word "love" is mentioned […]

tone down

[tone down] {v.} To make softer or quieter; make less harsh or strong; moderate. * /He toned down the sound of the TV./ * […]

Samuel Butler II

(1835-1902) A hen is only an egg's way of making another egg.

scally

[scally] {n.} A hooligan youth (Scouse), short for scallywag.