IdiomAnimals
English
Englishchamp at the bit
Meaning: To be impatient to start.
Example: “The kids were champing at the bit to open their presents.”
Origin: An eager horse chews (champs) on the metal bit in its mouth. The figurative use is found from the 17th century. "Chomp at the bit" is a common variant.
Equivalents in other languages
French: Ronger son frein Literally: To gnaw one's bit
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