Right off the bat

Meaning

Immediately, without delay.

Usage

Used to describe instant reactions or actions.

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.

Baseball phrase for the moment the bat hits the ball.

Extended from baseball commentary in the early 1900s.