ENGLISH
REFERENCE

drop off the hooks

idiom
Meaning

To die.


Examples
SIMPLE

The old man finally dropped off the hooks last night.

CONTEXTUAL

After years of poor health, the neighbor sadly dropped off the hooks while he was sleeping.

COMPLEX

The family gathered to mourn their patriarch, who had quietly dropped off the hooks shortly after his ninetieth birthday.

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