The phrase is thought to have originated in the United Kingdom in the early 20th century. Since rats are often associated with negative qualities such as sneaking around, betrayal, and spreading disease. By comparing someone to a rat, the term "love rat" emphasizes their disloyalty or infidelity in relationships. It is often used to describe men who cheat on their wives or girlfriends, but it can also be used to describe women who cheat on their husbands or boyfriends.

What is the origin of the idiom "love rat" and when to use it?

love rat

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The idiom "cupboard love" is thought to have originated in the 18th century, when it was used to describe the love that a husband and wife had for each other when they were in need of food or shelter. The phrase is based on the idea that people who are in need of food or shelter are more likely to love each other than people who are not in need. It is now used in a more general sense to describe any type of love that is based on need or convenience rather than on feelings.

What is the origin of the idiom "cupboard love" and when to use it?

cupboard love

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"Gold digger" is an English slang term that appeared in the early 20th century, around the 1910s, and became widely popular through American theater and jazz culture. It literally evokes the image of someone "digging" for gold, used metaphorically to describe a person—usually a woman—who pursues a romantic relationship primarily for money or material advantage. The term is commonly used in informal speech, media, and popular culture to criticize or mock perceived opportunism in relationships. It is derogatory, often gendered, and can be offensive when applied to someone without justification, though it is sometimes used humorously or ironically.

What is the origin of the idiom "gold digger" and when to use it?

gold digger

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The phrase is thought to have originated in the 19th century, when it was used to describe sailors who were away from home for long periods of time and were therefore more likely to be attracted to other women. It is used to describe someone who has a tendency to look at or show interest in others, especially in a romantic or flirtatious way, despite being in a committed relationship.

What is the origin of the idiom "have a roving eye" and when to use it?

to [have] a roving eye

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The phrase is thought to have originated in the 19th century, when it was used to describe the love between a young boy and his dog. The phrase is now used in a more general sense to describe any young person's first romantic relationship. It is typically used to describe the early stages of romantic interest or attraction, especially among young people. It emphasizes the youthful and naive nature of the relationship, highlighting the lack of maturity or depth.

What is the origin of the idiom "puppy love" and when to use it?

puppy love

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The phrase "footloose and fancy-free" originated in the early 19th century. "Footloose" refers to being free to move or travel without being tied down or restricted, while "fancy-free" means having no attachments or commitments. It is often used to describe individuals who are not in a committed romantic relationship or have no other immediate obligations.

What is the origin of the idiom "footloose and fancy-free" and when to use it?

footloose and fancy-free

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The phrase "get to the first base with someone" comes from the sport of baseball, where "first base" is the initial stage of a player's progress around the bases to score a run. In a romantic sense, "get to the first base with someone" means achieving the first level of physical intimacy. It refers to kissing someone on the lips, signaling the start of a more intimate relationship. The phrase is often used in a playful or colloquial manner to describe the act of kissing someone romantically. It implies a progression from initial attraction or interest to a more physically intimate interaction. The phrase "get to the first base with someone" is somewhat old-fashioned. It originated in the mid-20th century and was more commonly used in earlier decades. While it may still be understood, it is not as commonly used in modern conversation, especially among younger generations.

What is the origin of the idiom "get to the first base with someone" and when to use it?

to [get|go] to first base with {sb}

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The phrase "kiss and tell" has its origins in the late 17th century and gained popularity in the 18th century. It refers to the practice of sharing intimate or scandalous details of a romantic encounter or relationship. The phrase captures the idea of someone engaging in a passionate experience, such as a kiss, and then revealing the details to others. It is used to describe the act of publicizing or sharing intimate or personal information about a romantic or sexual relationship, especially when it involves disclosing private details to others for personal gain or attention. It implies a lack of consideration or respect for privacy.

What is the origin of the idiom "kiss and tell" and when to use it?

to [kiss] and [tell]

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The term "love nest" originated in the early 20th century and gained popularity in the mid-20th century. It draws its inspiration from the behavior of birds, particularly the way they build nests for mating and raising their young. The concept of a "love nest" symbolizes a place where a couple can create a cozy, intimate, and secure environment for their romantic relationship. It evokes the image of a comfortable space where love and affection can flourish. It is often used to describe a couple's home or a special location where they create a romantic atmosphere. It conveys a sense of warmth, intimacy, and affection associated with a romantic relationship.

What is the origin of the idiom "love nest" and when to use it?

love nest

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The phrase is thought to have originated in the early 1900s, when it was used to describe men who would sneak into the homes of married women through the back door. The phrase is now used in a more general sense to describe any man who is having an affair with a woman who is married or in a committed relationship.

What is the origin of the idiom "backdoor man" and when to use it?

backdoor man

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The idiom "ladies' man" originated in the English language, and its precise origin is unclear. It has been in use since the early 19th century. It is used to describe a man who is very successful or popular with women. It suggests that he is skilled at attracting women's attention and affection due to his charm, charisma, and social skills.

What is the origin of the idiom "ladies' man" and when to use it?

ladies' man

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The origin of the idiom "take a cold shower" is not specifically known, it is believed to have emerged as a colloquial expression in the early to mid-20th century, reflecting the notion of using a physically cold shower to reduce or suppress heightened sexual arousal. The phrase gained popularity as a humorous and lighthearted way to suggest that someone should find a way to control or redirect their sexual desires.

What is the origin of the idiom "take a cold shower" and when to use it?

[take|need] a cold shower

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Dive into English idioms regarding infidelity or lack of commitment, like "gold digger" and "love rat".

English Idioms for "Infidelity or Lack of Commitment"