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REFERENCE

crocodile tear

idiom
Meaning

A tear shed insincerely, in a false display of sorrow or some other emotion.


Origin

disputed origin

From the ancient belief that crocodiles shed tears while consuming their prey.

Examples
SIMPLE

She shed crocodile tears at the funeral.

CONTEXTUAL

He cried crocodile tears when his rival lost, though everyone knew he was secretly pleased.

COMPLEX

The politician wept crocodile tears for the victims, yet had voted against the very aid he now mourned the lack of.

Anchors to
Related idioms7entries
  1. 01

    shed a tear

    To have a tear released, to cry (from sadness)

  2. 02

    tear a cat

    To overact; to violently rant and rave on stage.

  3. 03

    tear one's hair out

    To react with extreme agitation.

  4. 04

    tear to shreds

    Synonym of tear to pieces.

  5. 05

    tear up

    To damage.

  6. 06

    tear up the dance floor

    To engage vigorously in dancing.

  7. 07

    tear up the pea patch

    To put on a notable performance, especially in sports; to go on a rampage.

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