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Region: US | Usage example: He turned into a couch potato over the holidays.

Couch potato

Meaning

Someone who spends excessive time watching television.

Usage

Used to describe sedentary habits humorously.

Origin & History

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

Coined in 1970s U.S. pop culture combining couch + potatoes.

Has become a staple of lifestyle commentary.

Related Idioms

A hot potato

A controversial issue no one wants to deal with.

Butter up

Flatter someone to gain favor.

Pass the buck

Shift responsibility to someone else.

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.