Left in the lurch

Meaning

Abandoned in a difficult situation.

Usage

Used when someone is forsaken.

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.

From the old game lurk and its penalties.

Appears in 18th-century English texts.