ProverbWisdom
English origin1740
English origin1740A nod is as good as a wink
Meaning: Can be understood without further explanation.
Origin: Short for "A nod is as good as a wink to a blind horse," the only form found in print from 1740 until the 19th century trimmed it. To a blind horse, neither signal means anything; in everyday use the phrase flips to mean that a hint is enough — no need to spell it out.
Explore another collection: Untranslatable Words
Words that capture a feeling or idea English needs a whole sentence for.
- Waldeinsamkeit The serene, faintly mystical feeling of being alone in the woods, at peace with nature.
- Meriggiare To take a quiet midday rest in a cool, shaded spot, escaping the fierce afternoon sun.
- Backpfeifengesicht A face that is just begging to be slapped — someone so smug you can't help the urge.
Keep exploring