That story really beats Banaghan.
beat Banaghan
idiomTo tell wonderful stories, or something which is amazing and remarkable.
Origin
first recorded 19th c. disputed originThe Classic 1811 Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue speculates "perhaps Banaghan was a minstrel famous for dealing in the marvellous."
You should hear my grandfather talk about his travels; his tales truly beat Banaghan.
The old sailor sat by the fire and spun a yarn that surely beats Banaghan, leaving the entire tavern in complete silence.
- 01
beat a dead horse
To persist or continue far beyond any purpose, interest or reason.
- 02
beat a retreat
To leave hastily in the face of opposition.
- 03
beat around the bush
To treat a topic, but omit its main points, often intentionally.
- 04
beat as one
To share the same feelings.
- 05
beat feet
To run.
- 06
beat it
To leave; to go away.
- 07
beat off
To masturbate by stimulating one's own penis.
- 08
beat off with a stick
To reject (a person making an unwanted amorous approach).