English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Bun in the oven
Meaning
The idiom "bun in the oven" is a colloquial expression used to describe a woman who is pregnant. The phrase likely originated from the image of a woman's belly resembling a bun, or a loaf of bread, due to the swelling caused by pregnancy.
Usage
- "My sister just found out she's expecting her first child - she's overjoyed!"
- "I don't know if we should tell our friends yet; we haven't told them about the bun in the oven."
- "Congratulations to John and Jane on their new addition to the family! They're going to be great parents."
- "My colleague was absent from work today because she had to take her doctor's appointment for the bun in the oven."
- "It's been a while since my friend found out about the bun in her oven; she's been keeping it a secret."
Roots and History
The idiom "bun in the oven" dates back to the 17th century, with its earliest known use being recorded in the English language. The phrase has likely evolved over time as people have changed their attitudes towards pregnancy and childbirth. In some cultures, it is considered impolite or disrespectful to speak about a woman's pregnancy until she is actually showing signs of it.
Synonyms in English
- Expecting
- Pregnant
- With child
- Pregnant and expecting
- Carrying
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: Embarazada (pregnant)
- French: Enceinte (pregnant)
- German: Schwanger (pregnant)
- Italian: Incinta (pregnant)
- Portuguese: Grávida (pregnant)