mundtot machen
Meaning: to silence or suppress someone; to rob them of the ability or right to speak.
Language: German
Literally: to make speechless
Category: Body & Senses
Origin: A direct compound of 'mouth' (Mund) and 'dead' (tot), picturing the mouth rendered dead or inactive.
More idioms — Body & Senses
- wie ein Blinder von der Farbe reden — to discuss or explain something one has no direct experience or understanding of; to spea…
- jemandem in Fleisch und Blut übergehen — To become second nature or instinctive; to be absorbed so deeply that it feels like part…
- die Hände in den Schoß legen — To be idle or inactive; to do nothing while waiting or while problems accumulate.
- etwas auf seine Kappe nehmen — To accept blame or responsibility for something.
- tenere a freno la lingua — to refrain from speaking; to keep silent.
- a gambe levate — With great speed or haste, moving rapidly or impetuously.
More German idioms
- erstunken und erlogen — entirely false or made up; a complete lie or fabrication.
- mit allem Drum und Dran — complete with all the accessories, extras, or associated details; entirely and comprehens…
- jemandem nicht das Wasser reichen können — To be vastly inferior to someone in ability or quality.
- an die Kandare nehmen — To restrain, control, or impose discipline on someone.
- auf dem Teppich bleiben — To stay grounded and realistic; to avoid getting swept up in fantasies or exaggeration.
- seinen Hut nehmen — To resign or quit from a position.
From our compliments & insults
- Du gehst mir auf den Keks — You're getting on my nerves.
- Schlaumeier — A smart aleck or know-it-all.
- Du bist ein Goldstück — You're a real gem — priceless, irreplaceable, and deeply appreciated.