Steal someone's thunder

Meaning

Take credit for someone else's idea.

Usage

Used when credit is unfairly taken.

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.

Theater critics stole sound effects from playwright John Dennis.

Origin story from an 18th-century playwright.