Oxford Dictionary of Idioms - Idiom explanation & reference

The Oxford Dictionary of Idioms offers a fresh perspective on the idiomatic expressions and sayings that contribute to the richness and fascination of the English language.  Did you know that the phrase 'flavour of the month' originated from a promotional strategy in American ice cream shops during the 1940s, where a specific flavor was highlighted for a month? Or that 'off the cuff' pertains to the somewhat messy method of jotting down spontaneous notes on one's shirt cuff before a public speaking engagement?

Such idioms and numerous others are elaborated upon and contextualized in the Oxford Dictionary of English Idioms, which also includes an array of newer phrases such as 'the elephant in the corner', 'go figure', 'like a rat up a drainpipe', 'sex on legs', 'step up to the plate', 'too posh to push', 'a walk in the park', and 'win ugly'. Also incorporates advanced search options and linguistic tools that have become essential in high-quality language applications developed by MobiSystems, Inc.

Key Features

 • Features over 6,000 idioms sourced from various regions of the English-speaking world.

 • Includes hundreds of illustrative quotes, both contemporary and historical, which provide readers with a clear understanding of how these expressions are utilized.

 • Additional features deliver intriguing supplementary information for many idioms.

 • Designed for easy navigation, with numerous cross-references, making it perfect for quick consultations.

 • Alternative terms are presented prominently, with synonyms highlighted in bold for easier identification.

 • Based on the most recent research conducted by Oxford's extensive language monitoring program, the largest dictionary research initiative globally.

 • Offers in-depth background information on each idiom.

 • NEW! Look up words in any other Android application using the Tap to Translate capability, styled with one of four vibrant new themes.

What We Offer

🌟 SEARCH TOOLS - effortlessly locate terms through a user-friendly, clear interface.

 • Search autocomplete facilitates rapid word finding by showing suggestions as you type.

 • Keyword lookup allows searches within multi-word idioms and phrases.

 • An automatic ‘Fuzzy filter’ corrects spelling errors, while a ‘Wildcard’ option ('*' or '?') can replace letters or portions of words.

 • Camera search enables you to look up terms directly from the camera viewfinder and presents results.

 • Utilize our voice search function when unsure of the spelling of a word.

 • Share definitions through compatible apps available on your device.

 • NEW! Tap to Translate entry data in other applications.

 • Swipe-to-delete option in Recent and Favorites sections.

🌟 LEARNING TOOLS - interactive features designed to enhance your vocabulary further.

 • ‘Favorites’ feature allows the creation of custom folders with selected words from the vast library.

 • ‘Recent’ list provides easy access to previously looked-up terms.

 • ‘Word of the day’ segment promotes daily vocabulary expansion.

 • Home screen widget showcases random words at a glance.

 • Split-screen support for Android 7 enables simultaneous use with other applications.

***This is a fully functional trial version valid for 30 days***

Unlock MORE by upgrading to the full version:

 • Access all features permanently.

 • Offline mode - search for words without needing an internet connection.

 • Premium Support – ensures prioritized assistance for any app-related inquiries.

 • Ad-free experience.