# keep one's eyes peeled

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/keep-ones-eyes-peeled
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To be on the alert, to be watchful.

## Examples

- Keep your eyes peeled for the bus.
- Keep your eyes peeled for the exit sign while we drive through this heavy fog.
- The detective kept his eyes peeled for any subtle movement in the shadows, knowing the suspect might attempt a desperate escape at any moment.

## Origin

US, 19th century. Peeled probably refers to keeping one's eyelids retracted. (disputed)

---

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.