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Region: US | Usage example: The project ran out of funding, so stick a fork in it.

Stick a fork in it

Meaning

Declare something finished or done for.

Usage

Used when acknowledging failure or completion.

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.

Cookbooks suggest poking a roast to test readiness; once done, it’s over.

American diners used the phrase in the early 1900s when service ended.

Related Idioms

Stick to your guns

Refuse to change your opinion.

Carrot and stick

Combining reward and punishment to motivate.

Short end of the stick

Receiving the worst part of a deal.

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.