# press the flesh

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/press-the-flesh
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To shake hands and socialize, especially in a political gathering.

## Examples

- The candidate went out to press the flesh with local voters.
- During the campaign, the senator spent every afternoon in the town square to press the flesh.
- After the formal speech concluded, the politician descended from the stage to press the flesh and charm the influential donors in attendance.

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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.