Lose your marbles

Meaning

Go crazy or become forgetful.

Usage

Used humorously about confusion.

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 dropping prized marbles as a metaphor for losing one mind.

20th-century American slang.