ENGLISH
REFERENCE

drop in

idiom
Meaning

To arrive casually and unannounced, with little or no warning; also, to visit without an appointment.


Examples
SIMPLE

Feel free to drop in for coffee whenever you are nearby.

CONTEXTUAL

I was surprised when my old friend decided to drop in without calling me first.

COMPLEX

Although she preferred to schedule her visits in advance, she occasionally allowed her neighbors to drop in for a brief afternoon chat.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    a short drop and a sudden stop

    A fall to one's death by hanging.

  2. 02

    don't drop the soap

    Used as a mockery to someone who is about to be or should be confined in prison.

  3. 03

    drop a bollock

    To make a mistake.

  4. 04

    drop a bomb

    Alternative form of drop a bombshell.

  5. 05

    drop a bombshell

    To announce surprising or alarming information suddenly and without warning.

  6. 06

    drop a brick

    To commit a faux pas, especially in speech, such as by tactlessly speaking of a subject that should not be mentioned.

  7. 07

    drop a dime

    To make a telephone call.

  8. 08

    drop a hint

    To reveal a clue or hint about something.

Last updated April 17, 2026