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Region: US | Usage example: By the time the sequel arrives, the critics will be pushing up daisies.

Pushing up daisies

Meaning

Dead and buried; no longer active.

Usage

Used humorously to refer to death or obsolescence.

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 flowers growing over graves.

American slang from the early 20th century.

Related Idioms

Get up and go

Energy and enthusiasm to be active.

Barking up the wrong tree

Accusing or pursuing the wrong person/idea; making a false assumption.

Hit the books

Start studying with focus and dedication.

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.