Lame duck

Meaning

The idiom "lame duck" refers to someone who is no longer effective or influential, often because they have lost power or authority. It can also refer to a person who is weak or unpopular, and who is likely to be replaced by someone else in the near future.

Usage

• The new CEO was not popular with employees, so he was referred to as a "lame duck" during his tenure.
• The company's stock price had been declining for months, and investors were starting to lose faith in its management. They saw them as "lame ducks."
• The politician had lost support among voters, so he was referred to as a "lame duck" during the upcoming election.
• The employee had been working at the company for over 20 years, but his skills and knowledge were becoming outdated. He was seen as a "lame duck."
• The movie was not well-received by critics or audiences, so it was referred to as a "lame duck" in the box office.

Roots and History

The idiom "lame duck" originated in the 18th century, when it was used to describe a bird that had lost its power of flight due to age or injury. Over time, the idiom began to be used figuratively to refer to people who were no longer effective or influential. The phrase became popular during the U.S. presidential elections of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it was used to describe candidates who were likely to lose their jobs or positions.

Synonyms in English

• Washup
• Clean-out
• Dismantle
• Disestablish
• Cancel out

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish - Despacito (Slowly)
• French - Évêque lame (Lame bishop)
• German - Schadenzeichen (Damage sign)
• Italian - Caduto (Fallen)
• Chinese - 废物 (Trash)

Similar Idioms

• bull in a china shop

• loose cannon

• banana republic