English picked up a huge number of everyday phrases from centuries of naval and merchant seafaring life. Every idiom here has a nautical origin.
18 idioms in this category
"To reveal your real character or intentions, especially after hiding them."
Well Documented"Very drunk."
Well Documented"To dislike (or like) someone based on their general appearance or manner."
Well Documented"To spend generously, especially to celebrate something."
Well Documented"To ease initial social tension or awkwardness, especially between strangers."
Likely Origin (Disputed)"Having nothing to do; idle."
Well Documented"To have a drink, especially to celebrate."
Well Documented"Get out of bed; get moving."
Well Documented"To leave quickly, especially to escape a difficult situation."
Well Documented"To prepare for a difficulty or crisis."
Likely Origin (Disputed)"Stuck between two equally bad or difficult choices."
Likely Origin (Disputed)"Feeling slightly unwell or in low spirits."
Well Documented"An unpredictable person prone to causing damage if left unchecked."
Likely Origin (Disputed)"A mild, often affectionate term for a rascal or someone remarkable."
Well Documented"To understand how something works, especially through experience."
Still a Mystery"To miss an opportunity, especially through delay."
Likely Origin (Disputed)"To act boldly, ignoring risk or restraint."
Likely Origin (Disputed)"Facing the same difficult situation or circumstances as someone else."