# idiot mittens

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/idiot-mittens
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Mittens connected by yarn or string (idiot string (Canadian English)) running through one sleeve, along the back and out at the other sleeve of a coat, to prevent the mittens becoming lost. Generally worn by small children.

## Examples

- My toddler wears idiot mittens so he does not lose them.
- I threaded the string through his coat sleeves to make idiot mittens for the winter.
- To ensure the child would not misplace his gloves, his mother fashioned a pair of idiot mittens by connecting them with a long piece of yarn.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.