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Region: US | Usage example: I have known her since she was knee high to a grasshopper.

Knee high to a grasshopper

Meaning

Very small or young.

Usage

Used nostalgically to describe childhood.

Origin & History

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

Children compared to tiny insects to stress youth.

Used in American rural speech.

Related Idioms

Come hell or high water

No matter what obstacles appear.

Set the bar high

Establish a demanding standard

Ride high

Enjoy success or favor.

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.