Rack your brain

Meaning

Think very hard about something.

Usage

Used when someone needs to concentrate intensely.

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.

Metaphor using a torture rack to dramatize extreme mental effort.

19th-century literature reused the imagery to highlight difficult puzzles.