pipe the eye: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘pipe the eye’ mean?
The idiom "pipe the eye" means to shed tears or cry, often due to sadness or emotional distress.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "shed a tear" refers to the act of crying or expressing sadness by letting tears flow from one's eyes.
The idiom "reduce someone to tears" means to make someone cry or become extremely upset.
The idiom "piss one's pants" means to be extremely frightened or laughing uncontrollably. It is a figurative expression that emphasizes an intense emotional reaction. The word "piss" is used for emphasis and does not refer to literal urination.
The idiom "piss money up the wall" means to waste money in a careless or reckless manner, usually on unnecessary or frivolous things.
The idiom "piss away" means to waste or squander something, especially money, in a careless or reckless manner.
The idiom "pip to the post" means to just manage to surpass or defeat someone at the last moment or in a close competition.
The idiom "piping times" means a period of excitement or celebration, often accompanied by joyful music or sounds.
The idiom "piping hot" means something that is extremely hot or freshly cooked. It is used to describe something that is at its highest temperature or in its optimal condition.
The idiom "pipe down" means to become quiet or stop talking. It is often used in informal situations to ask someone to stop making noise or to stop talking loudly.
The idiom "pinch one off" means to defecate or take a quick bathroom break, often used informally.
Elucidating the Enigmatic
Idiom: pipe the eye
The idiom "pipe the eye" is an informal expression in English that means "to cry" or "to shed tears." Its origin is unclear, but it is commonly used to describe the act of crying, often in a lamenting or sorrowful manner.
"Pipe" in this context likely comes from the idea of a musical pipe or a whistle producing a high-pitched sound. When coupled with "eye," the idiom refers to tears streaming from the eyes.
Although the precise origin of "pipe the eye" remains elusive, the idiom is part of the rich tapestry of informal expressions in English. It has likely evolved over time, acquiring its current meaning through reinterpretation of metaphorical imagery.
As with many idioms, "pipe the eye" holds a fluidity that transcends strict definitions and associations. It enables individuals to express their emotions and experiences through concise yet evocative language. In the realm of idiomatic expressions, meanings often originate from shared understandings among speakers rather than documented etymology.
Despite the mystery surrounding its specific origin, "pipe the eye" continues to be used and recognized in contemporary English, showcasing its enduring relevance. The expressive power of idioms lies in their ability to encapsulate complex emotions and experiences within concise linguistic constructs.
The idiom "pipe the eye" invites reflection on the profound and often enigmatic nature of human emotions. It serves as a reminder that language, in all its varied forms, continues to shape and illuminate the countless shades of human experience.
Related Idioms:
Idiom: shed a tear
"Shed a tear" is a common idiomatic expression that means to cry or to have tears flow from the eyes. Similar to "pipe the eye," this phrase captures the act of crying, often in a sorrowful or mournful manner.
Idiom: bawl one's eyes out
The idiom "bawl one's eyes out" is an informal expression that means to cry loudly and uncontrollably. It emphasizes the intensity and volume of the tears and conveys a strong emotional response to a particular situation.
Idiom: cry one's eyes out
The idiom "cry one's eyes out" is a figurative expression that means to cry excessively or for a prolonged period of time. It implies a deep emotional distress or sadness that leads to prolonged crying.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom pipe the eye can be used in a sentence:
- After seeing her son's remarkable performance, the proud mother couldn't help but pipe the eye.
- As the heartfelt tribute to the retiring teacher reached its peak, the students couldn't help but pipe the eye.
- When the soldier surprised his family by returning home early from deployment, his parents piped the eye with joy.
The idiom pipe the eye is used to describe the act of shedding tears or crying. It is often used to convey sentiments of deep emotion, such as pride, happiness, or nostalgia. The phrase is typically associated with tears of joy or tears brought on by touching or heartwarming moments. When someone "pipes the eye," it suggests an overflow of strong emotions that prompt tears to flow.
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