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Definition 2024


throw_it_to_the_dogs

throw to the dogs

English

Verb

throw to the dogs

  1. (idiomatic) To throw away as useless.
    • 1623, William Shakespeare, Macbeth, act 5, scene 3:
      Throw physic to the dogs; I'll none of it.
  2. (idiomatic) To remove or cast out someone or something from one's protection, such as into the streets.
  3. (idiomatic) To give up on something valuable.
    • 1945, Karl E. Ettinger, Public Relations Directory and Yearbook‎, page 45:
      Let's hope it will not throw "to the dogs" its new-found opportunity for winning back public favor and respect.

See also