house of ill fame

15 minutes of fame

A very short time in the spotlight or brief flurry with fame, after which the person or subject involved is quickly forgotten.

basket house

A cafe or similar establishment where musical performances are given and the performers are then paid with money placed in a basket by members of the audience.

be taken ill

To become ill.

bet the house

Synonym of bet the farm.

bird of ill omen

A person who brings bad news.

bottom the house

To clean a house from top to bottom; to clean a house extremely thoroughly.

bring down the house

To garner enthusiastic or wild applause or laughter.

claim to fame

That for which one has bragging rights; one’s reason for being well-known or famous.