Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
lead-balloon
idiom
/ˈlɛd bəlˈuŋ/
Definition
A lead balloon is an idiomatic expression that refers to something that is unsuccessful or fails to gain support.
Examples
- “His suggestion for a new policy went over like a lead balloon in the meeting.”
- “The comedian’s joke fell flat, leaving the audience in silence like a lead balloon.”
Meaning
The term suggests that an idea or plan is as unappealing or unsuccessful as a balloon made of lead, which would not float or be effective.
Synonyms
- flop
- failure
- dead on arrival
- leaden failure
