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Region: General | Usage example: We were on pins and needles waiting for the test results.

On pins and needles

Meaning

Nervous or anxious.

Usage

Describes tense anticipation.

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.

Imagines the discomfort of standing on sharp pins.

Used since the 1600s in English literature.

Related Idioms

Get cold feet

To become nervous or afraid just before doing something important.

Get cold feet

Become nervous about a commitment.

Get cold feet

Become nervous and reconsider a plan.

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.