IdiomNature
English
Englishdrag someone's name through the mud
Meaning: To damage someone's reputation publicly.
Example: “The tabloids dragged the singer's name through the mud.”
Origin: Mud as dirt that stains; "mud" has meant slander since the 19th century (see "mudslinging"). The phrase is common from the 19th century.
Equivalents in other languages
Portuguese: arrastar pela lama Literally: To drag through the mud
Polish: zmieszać z błotem Literally: To mix with mud
French: Vouer aux gémonies Literally: To consign to the Gemoniae- French: Dire pis que pendre de quelqu'un Literally: To say worse than hanging about someone
More English idioms
- get one's hooks into To get a firm hold or control over something or someone.
- behind closed doors In private or in secret.
- a low blow An unfair or cruel attack.
- it's all fun and games until someone loses an eye Rough play may seem harmless but can end in injury.
- the judgment of Solomon A wise decision that cleverly settles a difficult dispute.
- six of one, half a dozen of the other Two options are essentially the same.
Explore another collection: False Friends
Words that look familiar in another language but mean something else entirely.
Keep exploring