see a man about a dog

English

Etymology

Unknown. As a Prohibition-era reference to getting alcohol, influenced by the expression hair of the dog.

Pronunciation

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Verb

see a man about a dog

1. (idiomatic, dated) Used in place of a real explanation when excusing oneself for a short period of time, particularly (euphemistic) to use the toilet or (historical) drink alcohol.

   I'll be right back, but I've got to go to see a man about a dog.

Synonyms

• (all senses): see a man, see a man about a horse
• (use the toilet): see a man about the plumbing, see also use the toilet, Thesaurus:urinate, and Thesaurus:defecate