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Region: US | Usage example: He submitted the design under the wire.

Under the wire

Meaning

Just before a deadline.

Usage

Used when something happens right before a cutoff.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Races wired with tape at the finish line, emphasizing last-second finishes.

Early 20th-century athletics cemented the image.

Related Idioms

Down to the wire

Until the very last moment.

Throw you under the bus

Blame or sacrifice someone else to save oneself.

Keep it under your hat

Keep something secret.

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.