Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

the penny drops

idiom
/ðə ˈpɛni drɒps/
Definition
The moment when someone finally understands or realizes something that has been confusing or unclear.
Examples
  • After struggling with the math problem, the penny dropped, and she quickly solved it.
  • He kept explaining it, and then suddenly, the penny dropped for her.
  • Once he read the instructions again, the penny dropped about the process.
Meaning
This phrase describes a situation in which a person suddenly comprehends something that was previously puzzling, often after some time or consideration.
Synonyms
  • the light bulb goes on
  • it clicks
  • realization