reclaim one's time
To assert control over one's allotted time, in order to stop interruptions and regain speaking time during a parliamentary procedure.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“I need to reclaim my time to finish this project.”
“During the long meeting, she had to reclaim her time to finish her presentation without further interruptions.”
“The senator stood firmly to reclaim her time, insisting that the committee allow her to complete her opening statement without further delay.”
first recorded 21st c.
Popularized during congressional hearings by Congresswoman Maxine Waters in 2017.
- 01
a week is a long time in politics
In politics, much change can occur in a short space of time.
- 02
abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
- 03
about time
Far past the desired time.
- 04
ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
- 05
act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
- 06
act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
- 07
afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
- 08
air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
Last updated August 10, 2026