on eternal patrol

Meaning: Lost or missing at sea, presumed dead.

Example: “The submarine and her crew of eighty have been on eternal patrol since 1944.”

Origin: Naval terminology; submarines on 'eternal patrol' were those lost in action during wartime, forever patrolling the ocean depths.

More English idioms

play with house money To take risks when one has nothing personal to lose, or to act recklessly because the sta…
all mouth and trousers Full of loud boasting and empty talk, lacking substance or follow-through.
turn on one's heel To suddenly depart or walk away, often in a dramatic or dismissive manner.
sugarcoat the pill To make something unpleasant more palatable or easier to accept.
ace up one's sleeve A hidden advantage or secret resource kept in reserve to use when needed.
what's eating you What is bothering or irritating you?

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