piping times: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘piping times’ mean?
The idiom "piping times" means a period of excitement or celebration, often accompanied by joyful music or sounds.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "raise the roof" means to create a loud uproar or excitement, usually in response to something notable or impressive. It is often used in a celebratory or enthusiastic context.
The idiom "rain pitchforks" means to rain very heavily or intensely. It is often used to describe a downpour of rain or a severe storm.
The idiom "pump out" means to produce something quickly and in large quantities. It is often used to describe the rapid and efficient creation of a product, usually in a manufacturing or production context.
The idiom "pour down the drain" means to waste or lose something valuable, especially time, effort, or resources, without any benefit or use. It conveys the idea of something being futile or ineffectual, as if it is being poured, or thrown away, down a drain with no possibility of retrieval.
The idiom "piss around" means to waste time or engage in unproductive or frivolous activities.
The idiom "piss and moan" means to constantly complain or express dissatisfaction in a persistent and annoying 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 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 the eye" means to shed tears or cry, often due to sadness or emotional distress.
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.
Whimsical Piping Moments
The idiom "piping times" is an expression that originated in the English language during the 19th century and is still commonly used today. It signifies a period of prosperity, abundance, or joyous celebration. The term "piping" in this idiom can be traced back to a musical instrument similar to a flute. Playing a pipe or flute was often associated with festive occasions and merriment, which is why the word "piping" became incorporated into the idiom, emphasizing a sense of cheerfulness and lively celebration.
The word "times" in this context refers to a distinct period or era. It is often used to describe a specific time frame marked by notable events or conditions. When combined with "piping," the idiom "piping times" takes on a metaphorical meaning of a period characterized by happiness, abundance, or prosperity.
The idiom "piping hot" is related to "piping times." When something is described as "piping hot," it means that it is extremely hot or fresh from the oven or stove. The use of the word "piping" in this phrase adds emphasis and conveys a sense of intensity. Just as "piping times" signifies a period of abundance or celebration, "piping hot" highlights the extreme temperature or freshness of something.
The idiom "pipe down" is another phrase related to "piping times." When someone is told to "pipe down," it means they are being asked to be quiet or lower their voice. The use of the word "pipe" in this phrase refers to the act of playing a pipe or flute, which historically was often associated with loud or boisterous music. Just as "piping times" conveys a sense of joyous celebration, "pipe down" references the need to quiet down or tone down one's noise or excitement.
The idiom "pipe the eye" is also connected to "piping times." When someone is said to "pipe the eye," it means they shed tears or cry. The use of the word "pipe" in this phrase refers to the act of playing a pipe or flute, which can produce a melancholic or sorrowful sound. Just as "piping times" conveys a sense of joy and celebration, "pipe the eye" expresses a contrasting emotion of sadness or grief.
The idiom "pip to the post" is another phrase related to "piping times." When someone is said to "pip to the post," it means they narrowly beat someone else in a competition or race. The use of the word "pip" in this phrase refers to a small seed or mark used to determine a winner. Just as "piping times" conveys a sense of abundance and celebration, "pip to the post" illustrates a competitive victory or accomplishment.
The idiom "like a chicken with the pip" is also connected to "piping times." When someone is described as being "like a chicken with the pip," it means they are sick or unwell. The use of the word "pip" in this phrase refers to a disease or affliction that affects chickens. Just as "piping times" conveys a sense of happiness and abundance, "like a chicken with the pip" portrays a contrast of illness or discomfort.
The idiom "piping times" has its origins in the English language and signifies a period of prosperity, abundance, or joyous celebration. The use of the word "piping" highlights a sense of cheerfulness and lively festivity, while "times" refers to a specific era or period. The related idioms, such as "piping hot," "pipe down," "pipe the eye," "pip to the post," and "like a chicken with the pip," further emphasize different aspects of intensity, quietness, sadness, victory, and illness. These idioms showcase the versatility of the English language and its ability to convey a wide range of emotions and experiences.
Example usage
1. Sarah was so excited about her upcoming vacation that she couldn't sleep. She kept imagining herself lying on a sunny beach, enjoying the piping times of relaxation.
2. As the school year came to an end, the students were eagerly looking forward to the piping times of summer break.
3. After months of hard work, the team finally won the championship. They celebrated their victory with a big party, enjoying the piping times of success.
More "Nautical" idioms
