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Region: General | Usage example: She milked the praise for days.

Milk it

Meaning

Take full advantage of a situation, often excessively.

Usage

Used to critique exploitation of opportunities.

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.

Milking cows to extract as much as possible.

Used since early 20th century slang.

Related Idioms

Cry over spilled milk

Worry about something that already happened and cannot be changed.

Ace in the hole

A hidden advantage kept in reserve until it's needed.

Air your laundry

Publicly discuss private matters, often causing embarrassment.

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.