ENGLISH
REFERENCE

cut the cheese

idiom
Meaning

To fart loudly.


Origin

disputed origin

This idiom references the foul smell emitted by some cheeses, many of which have a rind that keeps the odor in. Once the rind is pierced, as in the case of slicing it, the smell is released.

Examples
SIMPLE

Someone in the back of the bus cut the cheese.

CONTEXTUAL

The dog looked guilty after he cut the cheese during the family dinner.

COMPLEX

In the crowded elevator, a businessman shifted uncomfortably, pretending not to notice who had cut the cheese.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a little bit of bread and no cheese

    Used to represent the song of the yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella).

  2. 02

    big cheese

    A very important figure, especially a high-ranking person in an organization.

  3. 03

    chalk and cheese

    Said of things that are very different, though possibly superficially alike.

  4. 04

    cheese tax

    A portion of cheese given to a domestic animal such as a dog or cat, usually when the cheese is being brought out or prepared for human consumption.

  5. 05

    clear cut

    Straightforward, obvious, simple, or basic.

  6. 06

    cock cheese

    Smegma or dried semen on the glans penis, usually underneath the foreskin.

  7. 07

    cut a dash

    To make a display of oneself; to give a conspicuous impression.

  8. 08

    cut a deal

    To reach a negotiated agreement.

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