lion's den

idiom

Meaning

Any dangerous or frightening place.

Origin

disputed origin

After the story of Daniel in the lions' den in chapter 6 of the Book of Daniel.

Examples

SIMPLE

Going into that meeting felt like walking into a lion's den.

CONTEXTUAL

The young lawyer knew that entering the lion's den to face the aggressive judge would be the hardest part of her career.

COMPLEX

Despite his deep anxiety about the hostile board of directors, he steeled himself and stepped into the lion's den to defend his controversial proposal.

Anchors to

Den
lion's

Related idioms2entries

01
beard the lion in his den
To confront an adversary in his or her own environment.
02
lion's share
The majority; a large or generous portion.