Hit the road

Meaning

Leave or begin a journey.

Usage

Used when setting out on trips or relocating.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Travelers literally hitting the road with their steps.

Travel diaries from the 1800s mention stepping onto roads.