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Region: US | Usage example: Keep your shirt on; the results will arrive tomorrow.

Keep your shirt on

Meaning

Stay calm and patient.

Usage

Used to remind anxious people to relax.

Origin & History

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

Literally keeping clothing on to avoid rashness.

American slang from the 19th century.

Related Idioms

Keep your cards close to your chest

Remain secretive about your plans.

Keep your nose to the grindstone

Work diligently without distraction.

Put your money where your mouth is

Support words with action or investment.

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.