Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

idiom

noun
/ˈɪdiəm/
Definition
A phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning that is different from the literal meaning of the words used.
Examples
  • “It’s raining cats and dogs” means it’s raining heavily.
  • “Break the ice” means to start a conversation in a social setting.
  • “Kick the bucket” is a humorous way to say someone has died.
Meaning
Idioms are expressions that convey meanings not deducible from the individual words. They often reflect cultural or regional language habits.
Synonyms
  • expression
  • phrase
  • turn of phrase