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Region: General | Usage example: The auditorium was so still you could hear a pin drop.

Hear a pin drop

Meaning

The room is extremely quiet.

Usage

Used to describe silence.

Origin & History

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

Literal sound of a pin hitting the floor.

Common in theatre and lecture halls.

Related Idioms

At the drop of a hat

Immediately, without hesitation.

Drop the ball

Fail to do something expected.

Hear it on the grapevine

Learn news through unofficial channels.

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.