Left holding the bag

Meaning

Be left with responsibility while others avoid it.

Usage

Used when someone is blamed alone.

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.

Thieves literally left someone holding stolen goods to be caught.

Thievery folklore spread the phrase to describe scapegoating.