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Region: General | Usage example: They pulled the plug on the pilot episode.

Pull the plug

Meaning

Stop something abruptly.

Usage

Used for canceling projects, experiments, or devices.

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.

Unplugging electrical cords to stop a machine.

Used since the mid-20th century as electricity became common.

Related Idioms

Pull a rabbit out of the hat

Produce something surprising or seemingly magical.

Pull out all the stops

Use every resource available to achieve something.

Not pull punches

Speak bluntly without softening.

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.