dead as a doorknob

Definition from Wiktionary, a free dictionary

Contents 1 English 1.1 Etymology 1.2 Adjective 1.2.1 Usage notes 1.2.2 Translations 1.2.3 External links

[edit] English

[edit] Etymology

Possibly from a misinterpretation or misunderstanding of the expression dead as a doornail. See usage notes below.

[edit] Adjective

dead as a (doorknob)

1. (idiomatic) Entirely, unquestionably or certainly dead.

   I tried the flashlight, but the battery was as dead as a doorknob.

   I found the mouse who lived in our wall, lying on his back with his feet in the air—as dead as a doorknob.

[edit] Usage notes

Many other nouns can be substituted for "doorknob", perhaps the oldest being "doornail" from William Shakespeare, in Henry VI, Part 2, act 4, sc. 10, l. 40-1. Jack Cade. Also in A Christmas Carol. Other common forms include doormat, dodo, rock, graveyard.

[edit] Translations

[edit] External links

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