Where does the phrase kick in the teeth come from?

Where does the phrase kick in the teeth come from?

The saying relies on a simple metaphor, implying that an event is as painful, discouraging and humiliating as being kicked in the mouth. “Kick in the teeth” is one of a large number of idiomatic English expressions, dating back to the 18th century, which relate to being kicked.

What does kick in the face mean?

A harsh punishment (or remedy) for acting foolishly or malevolently. Usually used prescriptively (i.e., “(someone) needs a kick in the face”). Tim needs a kick in the face for passing up such a fantastic job opportunity. Whoever has been spreading rumors about Cathy deserves a kick in the face! See also: face, kick.

Is better than a kick in the teeth?

Meaning: If something is better than a kick in the teeth, it isn’t very good, but it is better than nothing.

What does in the teeth of something mean?

If you do something in the teeth of a difficulty or danger, you do it in spite of the difficulty or danger.

What does kick up a row mean?

To be very vocal in one’s displeasure about something; to make a scene. My mom kicked up a row when the store refused to accept her return without a receipt.

What a kick in the head meaning?

a kick in the head 1. A thoroughly devastating or disappointing setback or failure. Losing the championship match was a real kick in the head, but I knew I just had to train even harder and try again next year. 2. A harsh punishment (or remedy) for acting foolishly or malevolently.

What kick in means?

intransitive verb. 1 : to begin operating or having an effect : get started waiting for the heater to kick in. 2 : to make a contribution.

Is kick in an idiom?

1) to start to operate or become effective; 2) to contribute something (especially money). Notes: As noted above, there are two different meanings with this idiom.

What does blood mean in cold?

In a purposely ruthless and unfeeling manner, as in The whole family was murdered in cold blood. This expression alludes to the notion that blood is the seat of emotion and is hot in passion and cold in calm. The term therefore means not “in the heat of passion,” but “in a calculated, deliberate manner.” [ Late 1500s]

What does mealy mouth mean?

: not plain and straightforward : devious a mealymouthed politician.

What is the meaning of the idiom wet behind the ears?

Immature, inexperienced, and naïve: “Don’t rely on his advice about girlfriends; he’s still wet behind the ears.”

What do you get a kick out of?

get a kick out of (someone or something) To get a sense of enjoyment, amusement, or excitement from someone or something. Even as an adult, I still get a kick out of building sandcastles at the beach. She really gets a kick out of doing wheelies on her motorcycle in front of an audience.

What does ‘better than a kick in the teeth’ mean?

Another use of the expression is comparative, as a part of the longer idiom “better than a kick in the teeth.” This is used to indicate grudging acceptance, acknowledging that while something is unsatisfactory, it could be worse.

What is the meaning of kick in the teeth?

Wiktionary(0.00 / 0 votes)Rate this definition: kick in the teeth(Noun) A humiliating insult or instance of bad treatment, especially when one is expecting friendship or in need of support; a sudden and unexpected setback; a strong rebuff.

What does kick in teeth mean?

“A kick in the teeth” is an idiomatic English expression used to mean an unpleasant surprise or setback. It often has the more specific sense of a bad outcome which occurs instead of an expected good outcome. The saying relies on a simple metaphor, implying that an event is as painful,…