# circle the drain

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/circle-the-drain
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be in a rapid decline or in a state of downfall, especially as leading to an inevitable utter failure or destruction.

## Examples

- That failing company is really circling the drain now.
- With sales dropping every month and no new investors, the small business is clearly circling the drain.
- As the political scandal deepened and public support vanished, it became evident that the administration was circling the drain of total collapse.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.