like a demon: Idiom Meaning and Origin

Like a demon is an idiom that describes someone performing a task or activity with exceptional speed, intensity, or skill. The phrase suggests that the person is exerting a tremendous amount of effort or displaying extraordinary abilities, similar to a supernatural being. This idiom is related to several other idioms that also convey a sense of proficiency and intensity: like a champ, like a bull at a gate, on fire, look like, and like that.

While the exact origins of the idiom are uncertain, it is believed to have emerged in English language usage during the 19th or early 20th century. The phrase gained popularity and became commonly used in colloquial speech, literature, and other forms of media. It is often used to describe individuals who are exceptionally skilled or proficient in a particular activity, such as a sport or a profession. It conveys a sense of awe and admiration for the person's abilities, as well as a heightened level of intensity or focus.

The idiom can be used in various contexts and situations. For example, someone might say "She can play the piano like a demon" to describe someone who plays the piano skillfully and with great passion. Similarly, one might say "He ran like a demon" to express that someone ran at an incredibly fast pace. These idiomatic expressions, like a champ, like a bull at a gate, and on fire, also convey a sense of exceptional ability, intensity, or success in their respective activities.

It is important to note that the use of the word "demon" in this idiom does not necessarily imply any negative connotation or association with evil or malevolence. In the context of the idiom, the term "demon" is used metaphorically to emphasize the exceptional abilities or intensity of the person being described. It does not refer to any supernatural beings or actual demonic entities.

As with many idioms, the meaning and usage of "like a demon" may vary depending on the individual, region, or cultural context. While the primary interpretation of the idiom remains consistent, there may be nuances and subtle differences in how it is understood and employed by different groups of people. Similarly, idioms like look like and like that can also vary in their interpretation and usage, depending on the specific context and cultural background.

The idiom "like a demon" is a vivid and expressive phrase that captures the notion of exceptional skill, speed, or intensity in the performance of a task or activity. It draws upon the imagery and associations of supernatural beings to convey a sense of awe and admiration for the person being described. The idiom highlights the remarkable abilities or effort exerted by an individual, making it a powerful and evocative expression in the English language.