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Region: US | Usage example: The show jumped the shark when it added aliens to the plot.

Jump the shark

Meaning

Reach a point where something loses credibility.

Usage

Used for cultural phenomena past their peak.

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.

Refers to a TV episode where Fonzie jumped a shark on water skis.

Coined in the 1980s and popularized on the Internet.

Related Idioms

Jump on the bandwagon

Adopt a popular trend or join others in doing something.

Jump through hoops

Do complicated or unnecessary tasks to achieve something.

Jump the broom

To marry, especially within African American tradition.

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.