← Back to collection
Region: US | Usage example: Her keynote brought down the house.

Bring down the house

Meaning

Earn overwhelming applause or enthusiasm.

Usage

Used when crowds respond with great excitement.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Theatre metaphor of such applause it feels like the building is falling.

Used in vaudeville and Broadway reviews since the early 1900s.

Related Idioms

Down to the wire

Until the very last moment.

Caught with your pants down

Surprised while unprepared.

Bring home the bacon

Earn a living or deliver the results your family or team depends on.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.