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Region: General | Usage example: He stole her thunder by announcing the award first.

Steal a person's thunder

Meaning

Take credit or attention from someone else.

Usage

Used when someone preempts another's news or triumph.

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.

Playwright John Dennis supposedly had his thunder effect stolen by another production in 1710.

The story was told in the 18th century and still explains the idiom.

Related Idioms

Steal someone's thunder

Take credit for someone else's idea.

Steal the show

Attract more attention than others in a performance or event.

Pass the buck

Shift responsibility to someone else.

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.